Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, January 8th, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program: Transparent Watercolors: How to Use Color
MarySue Schwab says that people always ask her, “How do you use color effectively?” In response to that question, MarySue will conduct a mini-workshop around the use of color. Nuggets of her advice include: “Limit your palette! Know your colors! Remember complements create contrast! Know the temperature of your painting? Value trumps all else! And, save and use the white of your paper.
Supplies: Bring watercolor supplies (paper, brushes, paints, etc.) and a reference photo if you are starting a new project. If you are already working on something, bring that.
Close Up Images of MarySue Schwab’s artwork
Inside BWS
BWS’ Christmas Party
As the pictures below show, BWS’ 2023 Christmas Party (a Christmas Card Exchange) at Meadowwood was a huge success with over 40 people in attendance.
Up-Coming Benefit Show: We Paint….Peter, Paul and Mary!
This year’s show will benefit the Teachers’ Warehouse. The theme of the show is “We Paint….Peter, Paul, and Mary!” The show will be held from February 2 through March 29 at the Vault Gallery (121 E. 6th Street). The Opening Reception will be held on February 2 (Gallery Walk Friday) from 5 to 8 p.m.
In the prospectus, you will find all the details along with links to sites about Peter, Paul, and Mary, their lives and their art.
Any medium is welcome for this show, so BE INSPIRED, BE CREATIVE, and HAVE FUN!
Jeanne Dutton provided the following up-date for the Newsletter:
“Many thanks to Linda Branstetter, Denise Lessow, Marcy LaMaster, Meri Reinhold, and Lynne Gilliatt!
The Foundation for Monroe County Community Schools manages the BWS Art Scholarship. Due to the generosity of the artist members who contributed auction items, to those who made direct donations to the scholarship, and to those who bid on our items, the scholarship fund increased by over $300 in December.
MCCSC seniors may begin applying in February. Information will be available through their schools.
Signature Membership — Open Applications
Are you interested in applying for 2024 Signature Membership?
It’s the honored status for BWS members who have developed skills, gained education, and been juried into exhibits sponsored by prestigious art organizations, such the Hoosier Salon, National Watercolor Society, the Watercolor Society of Indiana, et al.
a. Indicate your interest in applying by MARCH 31.
b. Applications must be completed and submitted by APRIL 30.
c. Final judging will be completed by SEPTEMBER 30.
d. Award to successful applicants will be announced at the October meeting.
Andy Roberts, as 2nd VP and Membership Chair, oversees the application process. Please direct any questions to him at info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org.
Outside BWS
Bloomington Portrait Group Reorganizes Along Upland Model
Arkady Roytman • Faces of Bloomington • Oil
Visual artists in the Bloomington area are fortunate to have several vibrant groups serving their interests. The groups share many members in common and have filial relationships. For example, the Upland Plein Air landscape group was a spin off from BWS. The Bloomington Portrait Group emerged from Upland.
In January 2017, it was too cold to paint outside, and Upland members were looking for an indoor winter activity. Somebody suggested a portrait session. Eight members met at Jacki Fry’s home in Ellettsville, where the first model was an Indiana University BFA student. Claude Cookman saw a vacuum and began scheduling bi-weekly sessions for artists to draw and paint portraits from live models. Since then, the group has met every other Thursday to paint and draw from live models. When the Covid-19 lock-down halted in-person sessions, Mary Sue Schwab suggested self-portraits. That expanded into monthly challenges — such as portraits of pets, statues, dolls, famous persons, and the artists’ younger selves — that members completed in their studios and shared by email.
BPG welcomes artists at every level from novices to professionals. The roster numbers about 50 regional artists, but typically 10 to 12 artists attend a session. They work in a range of mediums from oil and watercolor to charcoal, graphite, pastel, and collage. The group has met in several locations including the Banneker Community Center, the Monroe County Public Library, Saint Mark’s United Methodist Church, and The Vault at Gallery Mortgage. Recently it has alternated between Bloomington Parks and Recreation’s Switchyard Park Shelter House during the summer, and the Arts Alliance Center at the College Mall during the colder months.
Cookman recruited models who represent our community’s rich diversity in age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation. During school vacations he scheduled children and teens. The youngest model was 8; the oldest, a nonagenarian. In addition to diversity, he also looked for people who help make Bloomington a safe and civil place to live: musicians, artists, athletes, ministers, WFIU radio personalities, journalists, fire fighters, and food security leaders. Models have included an IU women’s basketball star, performance poet, clown, belly dancer, cowboy, and roller derby skater. The one thing all models have in common is their interesting faces. “Interesting faces, interesting lives,” has become the BPG motto.
Because some artists like to include narrative in their portraits, models are asked to bring props that relate to their work or hobbies. Items have ranged from books and knitting to musical instruments and sports equipment. The most intriguing prop was Kundalini, a boa constrictor snake, which the model wore around his neck. The session got lively when the room warmed up and the snake started slithering across the floor. At that point, the moderator let the model break pose and retrieve his reptilian friend.
After six years as director, Cookman is stepping down at the end of December 2023. The group is reorganizing along the Upland model. Members will sign up for a month and be responsible for recruiting models and moderating sessions. Arkady Roytman has volunteered to be coordinator to keep things running smoothly and manage a website announcing the sessions.
If you are interested in participating in the Bloomington Portrait Group, go to this URL to join the mailing list and get information, invitations, and reminders about upcoming sessions!
Upland’s Membership Show will be held at the Arts Alliance Center in the College Mall from February 3th to March 2nd, 2024. Delivery of entries is on February 1 with the opening reception scheduled for February 3rd from 1 to 3 p.m.
Join us for a unique art workshop that goes beyond the canvas to explore the emotional impact of impending climate change. This workshop delves into the intersection of art and environmental consciousness, allowing participants to express their emotions and reflections on climate change through the powerful medium of abstract watercolors. Theme: The Emotional Landscape of Climate Change. In this workshop, we will explore the emotional depths inspired by the challenges our planet faces — droughts, fires, storms, oceanic changes, heat impacts, biodiversity damage, and more. Through abstract art, participants will have the opportunity to convey their feelings, fears, and hopes for the future in a visually compelling and evocative manner. Offered by Artists for Climate Awareness in partnership with the Center for Sustainable Living. Stephen Hale, board member, will provide a short educational piece about the organization’s many projects, and how you can help your home and community to be environmentally friendly. See https://ivytechbloomington.augusoft.net/index.cfm?method=ClassInfo.ClassInformation&int_class_id=1506&int_category_id=0&int_sub_category_id=0&int_catalog_id=0
Zain Mackey, “Orca Rising”
Call for art. Juried gallery show opportunity: Depictions: Earth, Life, and Our Shared Responsibility
Artists for Climate Awareness is calling for 2-D and 3-D artwork to be displayed in a gallery exhibition April 1 – 28 at the Arts Alliance Center in the College Mall in Bloomington, IN.
We are proud to be offering this juried exhibition during Earth Month, and we anticipate exceptional patronage during that time. Bloomington is the hot spot for viewing the 2024 total solar eclipse, and we expect a tremendous influx of tourists to be in town, especially around April 8th. (https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/indiana-2024-eclipse)
We will be coordinating other climate awareness events related to this exhibition, including: a reception featuring environmentally themed new music performed by an IU Jacobs School of Music ensemble; a pastel workshop by nature artist Avon Waters; and a climate-themed poetry and dance performance entitled “Stormwash: Climate Awareness” by Bloomington Writers Guild and Windfall Dancers, Inc. For the prospectus, see https://artistsforclimateawareness.org/art-exhibition-prospectus/
In Memorial
Robert Anderson.
Susan Graham wrote to say “I learned the sad news last night that Bob Anderson passed away earlier this month. I don’t know if the HT ran an obit for him but here it is from Franklin, TN, where he and Frances have lived since 2020. I was lucky to work with Bob for years in the economic development community in addition to BWS. What a fun-loving and sweet gentleman he was. Also a talented painter!”
Dec 10, 2023 — Linda Meyer, affectionately known as “Linnie” or “Lin”, was born on January 24, 1946, and passed away on December 7, 2023.
After a social service career in Cincinnati, Ohio, Linda moved to Indiana in 1988. In 2000, she took her first art class and found a love for art and a joy in expression that has become her second career. Linda taught watercolor, acrylic, collage and mixed media classes for Ivy Tech’s Center for Lifelong Learning. Her style of teaching encouraged students to expand their watercolor horizons with surprising results, including quirky impressions and colors while exploring chaos and pattern.
Jeanne Dutton. Ivy Tech’s Center for Lifelong Learning offers a wide variety of visual arts classes. For the very amateur watercolor artist, I will teach Beginning Watercolor I starting January 25. Classes are 2:15-4:45 every Thursday through February 29 and will be held at the commons of the new Bloomington Fine Art Supply store. It’s located next to Rainbow Bakery at the corner of Rogers and Fourth Streets.
Note that I will be teaching Calligraphy and Drawing at Ivy Tech Bloomington, winter/spring session. Sign up now. Classes begin 1/18/2024 and space is limited, Use the link for easy registration!
Fundementals of Drawing Thursdays 10-12.: This class will help you to develop your drawing skills. Come just for the love of drawing, or to use the techniques to improve your other forms of art!
Calligraphy Thursdays 12:30-1:30.: Calligraphy is the art of beautiful writing. Learn the basic strokes, size, and spacing of lettering so you can use these skills as a springboard for decorative lettering and flourishes.
Come join the fun!
Tim Lewis. Two of my watercolors, “Snowed In” and “Lonely Corner” are in the “God’s Gift Of Winter” invitational show at the Greenfield Christian Church in Greenfield, IN through March 3rd.
Jacki Frye. My granddaughter on the beach in Maui, entitled, “Surf’s Up!!”
Andy Roberts. I hope everyone has a Happy New Year and productive paintings in 2024. I closed out this year with a painting I was commissioned to paint from a couple who traveled to the Big Island of Hawaii in June. It’s a watercolor on watercolor canvas. I like not having to put glass on these painting as you can coat with acrylic UV paint and frame. Thanks to all our BWS members for a wonderful year.
Susan Savastuk. The items in red under the flyer (below) are donations that can be brought to the Cancer Support Center. The donations will become part of the Cancer Comfort Kits which the Center offers to folks healing from cancer. Feel free to bring your donations whenever, or better yet, when you come to see my exhibition at the Center which opens January 8.
Patty Uffman. I have been juried into the Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington. My work focuses on watercolors, but also includes pastels, acrylics, and collage. The Arts Alliance showcases nearly every media: watercolor, woodworking, collage, fiber, oil, photography, jewelry, oils, stained glass, pen and ink, glass, candle-making, and writing. I’m happy to join other members of BWS who also exhibit there, including Andy Roberts, Carol Rhodes, Don Geyra, Henry Leck, Rose Brenner, Sara Steffey McQueen, and Susan Savastuk. Please stop by the Arts Alliance at the mall Thursdays-Sundays to enjoy the wide variety of artists on display!
Zain Mackey. As we reach the end of 2023 I’ve been working with watercolor and playing with mixed media ideas. Here’s one of my paintings on that theme titled “Fleeting Thoughts.”
Jerome Harste. I had the chance to visit the Light, Space & Time Online Art Gallery. They are featuring an “All Women” Art Show. Below are some of my favorite paintings:
Artists: Susan Morris, Viv Buckley, (First Row). Jana Gaul, Michele Munyak (Second Row).
Calendar
Now through March 3 –“God’s Gift of Winter Show,” Greenfield Christian Church
January 8 — BWS Meeting, First Christian Church, Bloomington
January 8 to March 1 — Susan Savartuk’s Show at Cancer Support Ctr., Blmgtn.
January 18 — MarySue Schwab’s classes begin at Ivy Tech, Bloomington
January 25 — Jeanne Dutton’s classes begin at the Fine Arts Store
February 2 to March 28 — BWS Benefit Show at The Vault Gallery, Bloomington
February 3 to March 2 — Upland Plein Air Show at Art Alliance, Bloomington
February 13 — Artist for Climate Awareness Workshop begins, Art Alliance
April 1 to April 28 — Artist for Climate Awareness Exhibition, Art Alliance, Blmgtn.
Bloomington Watercolor Society will meet Monday, October 9th, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. The business meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program
The October 9 program is a Fall Paint In led by Charlotte Griffin. There will be three still life setups for you to choose from. Two are flower arrangements and one is a scarecrow and some pumpkins. Bring you paper, brushes, and your palette filled with fall colors.
Inside BWS
State of the Society — Past President’s Report
Bloomington Watercolor Society State of the Society Report (July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023)
Dear Members of the Bloomington Watercolor Society,
As I step down from my role as President, I take immense pride in the growth and accomplishments we have achieved together as the Bloomington Watercolor Society. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this remarkable community, and I am immensely proud of our collective achievements. The dedication, talent, and passion displayed by each member continue to inspire me and reaffirm my belief in the transformative power of art.
I would also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the entire executive committee and all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make BWS a resounding success.
I am pleased to present to you the State of the Society report for our organization, summarizing the activities and events that took place from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. It was an eventful year, and we are grateful for the continued support and participation of our members.
Meetings:
Throughout the year, our society hosted a variety of meetings and workshops to engage our members in the world of watercolor art:
July 2022 – We kicked off the year with an Etagami workshop by Ruth Bogan.
August 8th, 2022 – A demonstration featuring Rachel Berenson Perry, author of Painter of the Dunes: A Life of Frank Virgil Dudley. Morgenstern’s Books was there with copies of the book to sell.
September 12th, 2022 – We had a Show and Share session and a Book Exchange.
October 10th – Sara Steffey McQueen led a Mandala Art workshop.
November 14th – Penny Lulich shared insights on “Finding Joy and Confidence with Watercolors,” along with her demonstration of painting the California coastline.
January 9, 2023 – We visited McCalla Elementary School, which is now an art gallery showcasing artworks collected by Indiana University affiliates.
February 2023 – Unfortunately, this meeting was canceled due to Covid.
March 13th, 2023 – We had a still life setup to paint, featuring flowers, fruit, shamrocks, and other objects.
April 10th – Carol Rhodes and Jeanne Dutton presented various watercolor mediums.
May 8th – The FrameMakers demo was canceled due to the presenter’s Covid situation, and business was conducted among officers only.
June 2023 – We had a Show and Share session, the installation of officers, and a farewell to Carol Rhodes as BWS President.
Paintouts:
Our paintout events provided opportunities for members to practice their skills in different locations:
July 16 – A paintout at Indiana University’s Hilltop Garden.
August 6th – Downtown Historic Places paintout in Downtown Bloomington.
September 10th – Great Outdoor Paint Out at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site.
October 8th – A Multi-Organization Paint Out at the citywide Paint “Bloomington!” event.
October 15th – A paint-out and pitch-in event at Peden Farm.
April 22nd – A paintout at T.C. Steele State Historic Site for Arts of the Earth Day.
May 20 – A paintout at Hilltop Garden Nature Center.
June 3rd – A paintout at Monroe County History Center on the Lawn.
June 10th and 11th – “Artist in the Garden” paintout in collaboration with the Bloomington Garden Club Garden Walk.
Gallery Shows:
Our members showcased their talents in various gallery exhibitions:
“We Paint…Historic Bloomington” October 7 through November 23, The Vault at Gallery Mortgage
“We Paint…Monet and More!” – February 3 – March 21, 2023 at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage which benefited Teachers Warehouse. $286 was donated from the proceeds.
Tue Apr 25th – Sat Jul 8th – “We Paint…Historic Bloomington” Encore at the Monroe County History Center.
Thu Jun 22nd – Sat Aug 5th – “BWS We Paint…Outside the Box” at Waldron Arts Center, featuring non-traditional watercolor pieces and various mediums.
Cancer Support Community Shows:
Our members contributed to meaningful exhibitions at the newly formed Bloomington Watercolor Society Gallery, located in the Cancer Support Community. So far, the artists have raised over $1000 for CSC programs.
Fri 9/2/22-10/28/22 – “Places to Go, People to See” by Meri Reinhold
Fri 11/4 – Fri 12/23 – “Right Where You Are” by Laura Brown
Fri 1/9/23- Fri 2/24/23 – “Sunrise of Hope” by Rose Brenner
Fri 3/3 – Fri 4/28 – “Intuitive Acrylics” by Sara Steffey McQueen
Fri 5/5 – Fri 6/30 – “Spice of Life” by Christine Peterson
Special Events:
We enjoyed several special events throughout the year:
July 12 – Lilly Library watercolor book tour, where we admired antique watercolor works in the collection.
Sep 29th and 30th – BWS participated in the Peden Farm Children’s Festival, offering thumbprint activities for children.
October 8th – BWS offered thumbprint animals for children at “Paint Bloomington.”
Dec 7th – LUME field trip to the Monet and Impressionist Exhibition of lights at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields.
Dec 11th – BWS Holiday Party at Meadowwood, featuring dinner and activities.
Book Sale:
At our spring 2023 meetings, we held an informal book sale, with proceeds benefiting the Sande Nitti fund, which supports BWS participants attending art workshops. The sale was administered by Kathy Barton.
Workshops:
Our members had the opportunity to enhance their skills through workshops:
July 23, 2022 – An architectural drawing class instructed by Steve Dawson.
June 9, 2023 – A 3-D watercolor paintings workshop led by Anne Farley Gaines.
Scholarship Award:
We awarded a $500 scholarship to Danza Batson, a recent graduate from the Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship who will be majoring in Fine Arts at Indiana University. The scholarship committee will attempt to arrange for Danza to showcase some of his work at our meeting.
Treasury:
Our treasury remains healthy, with a year-to-year balance increase of approximately $90. These funds were used to make BWS activities more affordable, accessible, and enjoyable for our members by supporting or subsidizing expenses.
Membership:
Membership has grown from 90 to 94 members from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. We are thrilled to welcome new members and continue fostering our watercolor community.
Thank you for your continued support and participation in the Bloomington Watercolor Society. We look forward to another year of creativity and artistic growth.
Sincerely,
Carol Rhodes
President, Bloomington Watercolor Society (July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023)
Membership Show: “We Paint…Things We Love”
The Fall Membership Show is hanging in Viridian Moon Gallery, 1600 W. Bloomfield Rd., from Sept. 20 through Oct. 28. Viridian Moon Gallery hosted an opening reception Sept. 23 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Important Show dates Oct. 28, 3 – 5 p.m. Closing Reception Nov. 1, 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pick up artwork
A $50 People’s Choice Award will be awarded at the closing reception, Oct. 28, at 4 p.m. Questions: contact Laura or Jeanne at info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org
Field Trip to “The Lume” on October 18
Bloomington Watercolor Society has arranged a trip Wednesday, Oct. 18 to Newfields – The LUME to see a new version of the Van Gogh exhibit that many of us enjoyed last year. Aside from the vast array of spectacular images that surrounded us before, there will also be eight Japanese woodblocks and a “Sunflower Room” with seemingly endless fields of sunny flowers. Many aspects will be as brilliant this time as last, but we have learned that there will also be different effects with this newer version of the exhibit. If you saw the Van Gogh exhibit before, you know how stunning the immersive art, the classical music, the orchestrated lighting, and the interactive exhibits were. This is another chance to experience that once again without worrying about navigating traffic in Indianapolis.
Particulars:
DATE: Wednesday, Oct. 18 COST: $25 per person (includes bus transportation, if desired) OPEN TO BWS MEMBERS: One additional reservation may be made at the rate of $25 per guest MAXIMUM NUMBER OF BUS SEATS: 26 TRANSPORTATION PROVIDER: Rural Transit (Bus is NOT wheelchair equipped.) MEETING TIME: 9:30 a.m. at Lowe’s (Please don’t be late.) DEPARTURE: 9:45 a.m. ARRIVAL AT NEWFIELDS: 10:45 a.m. (est.) ENTER NEWFIELDS: 11 a.m. DEPARTURE BACK TO BLOOMINGTON: 1:30 p.m. ARRIVAL IN BLOOMINGTON: 2:30 – 3: p.m. (EST) RESERVATION DEADLINE: Sept. 30 CANCELLATION DEADLINE: Oct. 10 (No refunds thereafter)
If you are interested, please don’t wait to make reservations; there is a limited number of bus seats. If you have not been to Newfields, there is a a gift shop (naturally) and a cafe where you can take a break if you like. To reserve your spot and pay electronically, go to https://bloomingtonwatercolor.org/home/activities/lume-roadtrip-2023/. To pay by check, contact the BWS Treasurer, Barbara Coffman through info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.
Second Annual “Paint Bloomington,” October 7
WHEN:Saturday, October 7, 2023. RAIN OR SHINE Registration begins at 9:30!
WHERE: Woodlawn Pavilion in Bryan Park (Next to the swimming pool).
HOSTED BY: Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington. Bloomington Watercolor Society, Upland Plein Air, The Portrait Group and Artists for Climate Awareness along with Bloomington Parks and Rec are teaming up to bring this fun event to Bloomington!
NO REGISTRATION FEE. Free!No advance registration required!. Artists check-in between 9.30 am and 11:00 a.m. at the Pavilion the day of the event. All artists should have canvas or multi-media paper stamped before beginning their work. Supplies will be available for classes at the Pavilion and some supplies are available for painting on the Bryan Park grounds.
HOW: Artists will be able to paint anywhere in Bloomington. The event is open to professional and emerging artists of all ages and skill levels to create original artwork of any subject in any medium. All stamped/tagged works must be completed that day by 3:00 p.m. to be eligible for judging.
Completed works need to be brought to the Woodlawn Pavilion by 3:00 marked with the artist’s name and email address or telephone number in the back. Please do not sign artwork until after judging. Wet Oil paintings should be in a frame for safe handling or BYO easel/display.
AWARDS: ALL stamped works completed that day will be eligible for judging.
Awards will be for artists in all media in the following categories: Professional artists, Emerging Artists, Teens (12-17), and Youth )7-11) and Collaborative Art!!
CLASSES will be at the Pavilion beginning 10:00-2:00 for youth and teens and adults.
DEMONSTRATIONS: Various artists will be giving demonstrations throughout the day and there will be opportunities to paint with them. Plein Air Painting will be all over town and the park!!
Music, Storytelling, Poetry readings will be at the Pavilion throughout the day. Bring a picnic!
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
May Creek Farm Paint-Out and Carry-In, October 14
BWS’s End of the Season Paint-Out and Carry-In will be held at May Creek Farm on Saturday, October 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Arrive any time after 9:30 a.m. Please follow the signs to park in the parking area.
The shelter house is located across the field. Water, drinks, food, chairs, and electrical outlets are available at the shelter. If you or someone has difficulties walking, transportation across the field will be provided.
Set up anywhere in and around the field. Paint 10 to noon. At 12, lunch (white chili chicken and snacks) will be served. Please bring side dishes and desserts.
You are welcome to stay and paint after lunch. The event is over at 2:00 p.m.
Zain, Sharon, and Sara are excited to be your hosts.
Address: 8745 Rockport Road.
The easiest way to get to May Creek Farm is to follow Rockport Rd from Rogers Street for approximately 14 miles. You will go through the town of Kirksville. May Creek Farm is located about 1 mile past Kirksville on the left. Look for the signs.
NOTE: In case the paint-out needs to be cancelled due to weather, an email will be sent by 8 a.m. the day of the paint-out.
Out of Darkness Walk, October 22
Thanks to several member artists, BWS was able to contribute four dozen painted rocks to the Out of the Darkness walk! Scheduled for October 22 at Switchyard Park, walkers will receive a rock and “plant” it along the trail. This project is co-sponsored by Project STAY, Kiwanis, and BWS as part of a national program of suicide prevention.
Climate change is real. Come to a presentation of scientific and artistic visuals curated and presented by Ben Brabson, climate scientist and Emeritus Professor of Physics at Indiana University.
Using art for communication can raise awareness, provoke impactful dialogue, and inspire action about environmental issues. Brabson’s talk includes engaging and artful illustrations that simplify concepts of climate change for ordinary people, making the concepts more concrete, meaningful, and motivating.
Mary Sue Schwab to Conduct a Workshop on Painting Indiana’s Trees
Mary Sue Schwab at the WSI 2023 International Exhibition at Newfields
Sponsored by the Artists for Climate Awareness, Mary Sue Schwab will be conducting a one-day workshop at Ivy Tech on October. 27th, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. In that workshop she will demonstrate key techniques for watercolor success. Participants will paint native Indiana trees, landscapes and more. Participants will be instructed in multi-layered, wet-on-wet techniques employing watercolors to create highly effective tree formations using a mixture of warm and cool greens, juxtaposing shadow and form. Participants are encouraged to bring a reference, such as a photo for their own piece. This workshop is open to artists of all levels and each will receive individual attention. Limited space sign up soon!
During October and November, the Bloomington Portrait Group will exhibit work at The Vault at Mortgage Gallery, 121 E. 6th Street. Opening reception is 5 to 8 pm, Friday, October 6. The exhibition runs until Friday, November 24.
Many BWS members also participate in the Bloomington Portrait Group. Several work in watercolor. Come and support your fellow artists.
Jane Matranga • Watercolor • Donna Carlton in her belly dancing costume
WSI Sponsors a 3-Day Workshop
The Watercolor Society of Indiana is proud to bring Michael Holter to Indianapolis to teach a 3-day workshop, October 4 to 6, 2023. In this workshop Michael will help you build off of the principles of design to create emotional and expressive paintings, engage in exercises that will solidify the content that you are working on, spend time viewing other artists’ work, and discuss the methods that these artists achieve using their techniques.Michael welcomes novice and advanced students and tailors the experience to individual needs.
The Workshop takes place at Second Presbyterian Church in Indy. The room is equipped with Audio Visual Equipment, and each artist is given their own 8-foot table.
Fiber Arts on Display
The City of Bloomington, in collaboration with By Hand Gallery, presents “Threads of Meaning”, an exhibition of work by Bloomington-based textile artists on view at Fountain Square Mall Bloomington from July 1 – October 9, 2023. Closing reception is on October 6th, 6-8 pm. The exhibition features artists Beatrice Atencah, Ary Bird, David Joseff Sloma, Patricia Coleman, Alizah Sage, Nina Montenegro, Emily Chase, Ileana Haberman, and Alexis Zabor. Go check it out! The locations of the show are the following: Fountain Square Bloomington Gallery Wall in the main atrium and the Fountain Gallery Lower-Level Walls and Upper-Level Walls.
Trivia Night at Cardinal Spirits, October 1
The Cancer Support Community has been truly supportive of BWS artists through the establishment of the Bloomington Watercolor Society Gallery. In return, here’s a fun way we can support their programs.
“From My Fair Lady to Lady Gaga, George Michael to Michael Scott, and Downton Abbey to Uptown Funk, join us at Cardinal Spirits for “That’s Entertainment,” a trivia game that’s all movies, music, TV, and pop culture through the decades!”
This event is to support the Cancer Support Community of South Central Indiana (CSCSCI) and will be hosted by Josh Johnson of Bloomington Pub Quiz. All proceeds from ticket sales go directly to the CSCSCI.
Food, drinks, fun, trivia, prizes!!!
Swope Art Museum to Host Rachel Branson Perry
The Swope Art Museum in Terra Haute will host a reception for RachelBerenson Perry on Friday, October 6 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Her latest book, “Painter of the Dunes: A Life of Frank Virgil Dudley,” is part of the Historical Society’s Youth Biography series. The author will give a lecture about Frank Dudley and his work. Her presentation will start at 6 p.m. sharp.
Rachel Berenson Perry is fine arts curator emerita of the Indiana State Museum. She has written numerous articles for “American Art Review” and “Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History” (Indiana Historical Society) and has completed seven books about historical and current Indiana artists.
Artist Talk with Max Ginsburg
The Hamilton County Artists Association is hosting a talk by Max Ginsburg on October 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Lacy Art Building (848 Logan Street) in Noblesville. His artist talk is open and free to the public. Bill and Mary Sue Schwab have taken workshops with Max. Mary Sue reports, “Both Bill and I have taken workshops in New York with Max. I highly recommend his workshops. His Alla prima way of painting portraits is amazing!”
Artist Talk with Max Ginsburg October 3, 2023, 7:00 – 9:00 PM The Lacy Arts Building, 848 Logan St, Noblesville, IN 46060, USA
Membership News
Congratulations to Babette Ballinger on winning the Gallery’s Choice Award at Upland’s Members’ Show 2023!
Patty Uffman is the featured artist at the Community Cancer Support Center for September and October. Her show is entitled, “Outside Influences.” Although it will continue until October 26, the hours are limited: Tuesday-Thursday from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (or by appointment by calling 812-233-3286.). The holidays are coming. Patty has a variety of prints available for purchase as well as small framed artwork.
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Zain Mackey. Above is “Dusty River,” a watercolor that’s part of my new southwestern series. I’ve been remembering the trip my husband and I took driving across country last year.
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Jane Matranga. Everyone is invited to see my exhibition called,Wearing the Painting at the Bloomington Arts Alliance. Opening reception is this Friday, September 29th from 6-8pm. The show runs through October 22nd.
Mary Sue Schwab. “It’s Fall!” I recently sold my Plein Air painting of Ogle Lake at Brown County State Park.
Mary Sue closed her note with this announcements: “Coming soon, November and December, Allen Hunton and Mary Sue Schwab will have a BWS art show at The Cancer Support Center of Bloomington, watch for more information.”
Joanne Shank. Bloomington Open Studios Tour is Saturday, October 14 from 10-5 and Sunday, October 15, from 12-4. Fifteen artists will be participating this year. Find a map to studios and listing of all the artists at https://bloomingtonopenstudiostour.com/
Joanne Shank will be one of the artists. Her studio is now in her home and no longer downtown. She would love to have any BWS members stop by.
Stephen Edwards. Stephen writes “I’m finally painting again.” He’s also winning lots of awards!! “My ‘Tree of Life’ (Below: Painting 1) won Best of Show at the Artist Association of Madison County Open Annual Exhibition (now showing at the Anderson Museum of Art) and was also accepted in the Pennsylvania Watercolor Society International Open Exhibition. ‘Keeping the Seat Warm’ (Painting 2) was accepted in the Philadelphia Watercolor Society’s 123th International Exhibition of Works on Paper. ‘Cola Wars’ (Painting 3) was accepted into the Watercolor Society of Indiana’s 41st Annual Exhibition now showing at Newfields.”
Timothy Lewis. It has been a busy month.
New work: watercolor, Old Faithful, Through The Mist. and Solitaire.
Nov. 3rd through Jan. 7th – My watercolor, Spring Fed, was juried into the 79th Annual Wabash Valley Exhibition which will feature artwork by artists from Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee. The show is at the Swope Art Museum in Terre Haute, IN.
October – I will have a solo show at the Midtown Gallery in Broad Ripple the entire month of October. All watercolors in the show will be for sale directly from the artist.
On October 10 I participated in a curated tour of the Quest For The West show at the Eiteljorg Museum. Our guide was Gayle Weisfield, a well known western watercolor painter and regular participant in the show. From the 11th through the 13th I participated in a workshop by Gayle at a private residence in Zionsville. This workshop was arranged through the Watercolor Society of Indiana and included 16 participants.
Andy Roberts. These are a couple of my recent paintings: (1) Fountain Square Downtown Bloomington- August Paint Out Plein Air; (2) T.C. Steele’s Outdoor Studio Wagon, T.C. Steele Historical Site – July Plein Air.
Anticipating seeing a large turnout for “Paint Bloomington” Saturday October 7th, and the dedicated BWS members who are participating or volunteering.
Patricia Coleman. I would like to share a link to my recent blog post on persimmon astringent at:
There are some references to persimmon astringent being used to strengthen some handmade papers and in stencil making and its use as a paint. Traditionally it has been used in ways similar to indigo.
Jacki Frey. Here is painting I did this Tuesday after visiting Gnawbone camp. I do not often paint horses, however, these guys posed for me!!
Betty Wagoner. I recently attended the Watercolor Society of Indiana’s 3-day workshop with Taos artist, Gayle Weisfield. A day before the workshop, we met at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis for a tour of the Quest for the West exhibit. Gayle was one of the artists featured in that exhibit. While there, we met an African-American artist in the show who gave an inspirational speech about his paintings and his life. The combination plein air and studio workshop itself was held on an estate in Zionsville. It featured wet-on-wet painting and storytelling. It was both eye-opening and inspirational. Gayle is a wonderful teacher. The hosts fed us a wonderful breakfast and lunch in their beautiful home. If you have a chance to attend one of Gayle’s workshops, I highly recommend it. Attached is a photo of a not quite finished painting of one of the workshop participants sitting at a creek that ran through the property.
Don Madwig. The Opening Reception to Don Madwig’s show at the Fell Gallery, entitled “Nocturnes – Variations on a Theme,” will be on October 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. Don’s show runs through the month of November.
Calendar
Sept. 29 Opening Reception, Jane Matranga’s Wearing the Painting Exhibition, Art Alliance Oct. 1 Trivia Night at Cardinal Spirits, Cancer Support Community Oct. 3 Opening Reception, Don Madwig’s show at The Fell Gallery Oct. 4-6 WSI Workshop with Michael Holter, Indianapolis Oct. 6 Closing Reception, Fibers on Display, Fountain Square Mall Oct. 6 Opening Reception, Bloomington Portrait Group Exhibition, The Vault Oct. 7 2nd Annual Bloomington Paint-out, Woodlawn Pavilion in Bryan Park Oct. 9 BWS October Meeting, First Christian Church Oct. 12 Ben Brabson at Ivy Tech, Artists for Climate Awareness Oct. 14-15 Open Studio Tours, Bloomington Oct. 18 BWS Field Trip to Newfield’s – The LUME Oct. 22 Out of Darkness Walk Oct. 27 Mary Sue Schwab Workshop at Ivy Tech Oct. 28 3-5 p.m. Closing Reception for Member Show, Viridian Moon Nov. 1 10:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Pick up Member Show paintings at Viridian Moon
BWS’ August Meeting will be held at First Christian Church beginning at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program:
Joe Lee said this about the August program: “I will be posing in my “Jolais” costume and makeup. I will demonstrate the makeup application, and talk about the significance, symbolism, and history of clowning using illustrations I have put together over the years.”
Following Joe’s presentation members will be invited to do his portrait, applying all they have learned about drawing portraits from last month’s BWS Meeting (see the entry “Five on the Floor! Five artists demonstrate portrait methods, field questions at the July BWS meeting” in this Newsletter).
Members can use any art materials they wish (charcoal, pencil, watercolor, gauche, etc.). So Remember: Bring supplies and enjoy a portrait session sponsored by BWS and featuring Bloomington’s favorite clown and political cartoonist!!
Inside BWS
We Paint…Out of the Box
Join us at The Waldron Arts Center on August for a final reception from 5-8 p.m. We Paint…Out of The Box has attracted a lot of traffic and gained a few new BWS members.
If you wish to see the exhibit before August 4th be aware that the hours have changed since we hung the show.
We have new pickup dates. You may pick up your work during these days and times:
Wednesday, August 9, from 5:45 to 7:45 pm
Friday August 11, from noon to 3 pm
Waldron’s NEW Summer hours: Wednesday and Thursday 12-5 pm; Friday 12-8 pm. Saturday/Sunday, by appointment only. To make an appointment, contact info@seeconstellation.org.
BWS Membership Show: “We Paint…Things We Love”
“Bottoms Up!!” by JCHarste
Show chair, Laura Brown, encourages members to work on paintings to place in the member show which is titled “WE PAINT…Things We Love”. The show will be from September 23 through October 28 at the Viridian Moon Gallery. The dates to remember are the following:
September 13, provide images (pictures taken of work before putting glass in front of the painting) for use in publicity and for the online gallery.
September 15, deliver framed painting to Viridian Moon between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
September 23, opening reception 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
October 28, closing reception 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Members should read details for the show in the show prospectus.
AUGUST PAINT OUT at OWEN VALLEY WINERY
Sat Aug 12th 11:00am – 3:00pm
Owen Valley Winery, 401 Timber Ridge Road, Spencer, IN 47460.
It’s nearly Harvest time at Owen Valley Winery and the vibrant green leaves and plump grapes are filling up the vines. This beautiful country setting is ripe for a paint out. Bring your brushes and your vintner’s spirit to the Paint Out on August 12th. The gate will be open at 10:45 (so you may come in and set up for an 11:00 a.m. start). The winery officially opens for business at 12:00 noon, but arrangements can be made for wine to be served when you set up. Please reach out to April @ nablespics@gmail.com or Zoe @ stevezoedean@gmail.com by Friday 8/11 5:00 pm with any early requests. Otherwise, when you want to stretch your legs, wander into the winery for a tasting, lunch and a slice of their famous house-made cheesecake at noon. This is a 3-generation family-run winery, where the vino is produced and bottled with a heart for craftsmanship. A member of Indiana Grown, Owen Valley is on the Indiana Uplands wine trail with Butler, Oliver, Brown County, French Lick, Huber, Winzerwald, Best Vineyards and Turtle Run wineries. PLEASE NOTE: Due to ATC and Health Department regulations, no outside food or alcohol is permitted. You’re welcome to bring your water bottles and coffee cups.
If you are interested in carpooling check with Charlotte Griffin who has volunteered to coordinate such efforts.
Directions: (Using GPS directions is not recommended, better to follow the directions below as you drive)
Coming from 46 West out of Ellettsville.
46 West. Turn left on Hwy 43 at the light just before McCormick’s Creek State Park. Proceed 2.5 miles, Turn Right on Freeman Road Go .8 miles Turn Left on Timber Ridge Road. Proceed on Timber Ridge Road 2 miles. Owen Valley Winery will be on the Right.
Coming from the South side of Bloomington via 3rd Street (48 West passing by the airport)
Proceed West on 48/43 passing the airport, and toward Whitehall about 4.2 miles. 48 splits off at Whitehall. Stay toward the right on 43.
Continue through Whitehall on 43 for 7.8 miles and the beautiful country drive. Turn left on Freeman Road Go .8 miles turn left on Timber Ridge Road.
Proceed on Timber Ridge Road 2 miles. Owen Valley Winery will be on the Right.
BWS Members Collaborate with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
In mid-July a half dozen BWS members volunteered to “Paint Rocks” in support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). The rocks that were painted can be seen by participating in the AFSP’s 2023 Bloomington Out of the Darkness Walk held on Sunday, October 22, 2023.
Some of the rocks painted by BWS Members. Photo compliments of Charlotte Griffin.
Eskenazi Museum of Art Live!
On July 15, the Eskenazi Museum of Art invited BWS members to come to the museum and paint as part of its “Art Live” program which the museum described as a “convergence of music, art, and community.” Several BWS members participated including Claude Cookman, Joanne Shank, and Leslie Asher. Below is a photo of Leslie Asher in the midst of painting on the second level of the atrium in the museum. When asked about the experience she said, “Painting at the Eskenazi Museum was really fun. I would definitely do it again.”
Five on the Floor!
Five artists demonstrate portrait methods, field questions at the July BWS meeting
It all started with Penny Lulich. She suggested a session titled “Four on the Floor” to BWS program chair Joanne Weddle. Penny’s idea was that four BWS members would paint portraits, while members kibbitzed and asked questions. Somehow, a fifth artist got added, and the whole enterprise shifted into higher gear. Five artists — Penny, Meri Reinhold, Deborah Rush, Jane Matranga, and Claude Cookman — demonstrated their methods, materials, and skills in the portraiture genre at the July 10 Bloomington Watercolor Society meeting at the First Christian Church. Despite working in the same genre, they produced extremely varied results, not merely because of the different content but because of their unique approach and handling of the materials.
Below are photos of the artists in action, their finished works, and their reflections on portraiture. Digital reproductions are never as good as seeing real work. Therefore, the five artists have agreed to bring their actual paintings/drawings to the BWS August meeting so you can see their final portraits in a mini exhibition.
Penny Lulich • Anna at the Creek • Watercolor
There are many ways you can paint a portrait, and I painted this one rather quickly and without a color photo to help me. I painted this because it inspired me with the beauty of the innocence of a young child exploring a creek for the first time, and I let values and shapes guide me.
Skin tones. The most asked question at my table, was, how do you make the color for the skin tones. I use Winsor & Newton “light red”, and go from there, adding other colors when needed such as burnt sienna, opera pink, cad red, and manganese blue hue.
Understatement. Someone said, “I can’t wait to see how you handle the rock that the child is sitting on.” I didn’t handle it very much, because I didn’t want the focus to be the rock, but rather the child. I hope it looks satisfactory.
Future. I felt like we had a good evening, and it was fun for everyone. I hope we do this again in other genres.
Penny Lulich takes a round brush to the portrait of her granddaughter, Anna, playing in a creek.
Meri Reinhold • St John Friend• Watercolor
Motivation. I am fascinated by the human form and love to draw it. The human face has so many incredible variations. It always captures my interest. As a member of the Bloomington Portrait Group, I was able to enjoy endless variety in features, from young people to elders and everyone in between; some in ethnic costume, some with instruments, even one young man with a snake wrapped around his neck.
Advice. As I teach drawing, I hear comments such as “I can’t do hands or teeth” or variations of that. But I can tell you that drawing is drawing is drawing…. It’s ALL the same and what you learn is perspective and the relationship of shapes and contours to each other.
Meri Reinhold works on her portrait as a BWS member looks on.
Deborah Rush • Anne • Watercolor
I’ve been drawing people since I was a child. A lot of times that’s the only thing you have to draw. If you want to draw, there are usually people around.
Objective. Other than a likeness, it’s capturing a spirit. It doesn’t have to look exactly like the person, but it has to have their character.
Method: I usually start with an oval and the line for the eyes and also down the middle of the face. And then I start drawing the eyes. They’re very, very important. And then I carry on from there, because everything is connected: do the eyes, come down the nose, do the mouth. And then refine. But it’s a very rough drawing.
You almost have to work in layers. I start with a thin layer of the darkest color — to get started, to get past that white-paper thing.
Anne. Part of it was her pose, part her beautiful coloring: the red hair and the pale skin. It’s like: you see something and it strikes you; it’s something you want to capture. Also, I had done a portrait of her at a Portrait Group session, and I didn’t like it. So, I wanted to do something better. I’m still not satisfied. I think I could work on it for another four hours, but I know I won’t.
Questions. Most of the questions were about the colors I was using for the skin tones. That seems to be a big mystery for people. And everybody uses something different. … I use new gamboge and opera rose, which is a pink. And when you mix them together in any strength, it looks like methylate, for people who are old enough to remember what that is. So, it’s a hideous color. But when you water it down and put it on paper, it’s a nice, sparkly skin tone. It’s absolutely appropriate, I think. It doesn’t get muddy.
Advice. The whole thing can be daunting. But if you start doing small studies of eyes, a nose, mouth. And don’t worry about how they all go together. But get familiar enough with those features that you know what the shapes are — any intricacies — then it’s much easier to put them together in a face.
Under the watchful eye of Barbara Coffman, Deborah Rush picks out a tube of color for her painting of Anne.
Jane Matranga • Elsa Schiaparelli • B&W charcoal
Drawing and painting portraits is perhaps my favorite form of art making besides designing clothes. I’ve drawn “figures” and “faces” since I was a toddler!
Objective. Early on, my reason for doing portraits was to capture a likeness and make sure the facial feature proportions were accurate. That is still important but, now I want to infuse the portrait with character, the subject’s and some of my own. I hope to accomplish that by being more loose with paint application and by using some unexpected, bold colors.
Model. I chose to draw Elsa Schiaparelli because she is my fashion idol. The image I used was a black and white photograph from the 1920’s so I used black and white charcoal on grey paper.
It was fun to create a portrait as people watched. It reminded me of doing portraits on the boardwalk in Atlantic City one summer.
Questions. Most people asked me questions about my painting of my parents on the velvet top I had on display.
Claude Cookman • Toni Morrison • Charcoal
Motivation. I’ve been trying to learn to draw since 1994. For me drawing is about seeing in a concentrated, purposeful way. In his book “Why We Draw,” Frederick Franck expressed it best: “I have learned that what I have not drawn, I have never really seen …” The human face is complex. We can always discover new facets.
Method. I’ve been drawing portraits seriously since the Bloomington Portrait Group launched in January 2017. After several frustrating years, I discovered a method published by Andrew Loomis in 1943. It lets you establish the structure of the head plus the proportion and arrangement of the features from any angle. I work in many different mediums but for the BWS session, I chose charcoal. I started by covering the paper with powdered charcoal, which got rid of all that intimidating white. It also let me draw negatively by erasing with cotton swabs, a chamois skin, and a kneaded eraser. I did the block-in with vine charcoal. It’s extremely malleable; you can erase and redraw endlessly. When I got the structure and tonal values down solid, I moved to compressed charcoal for dark values and charcoal pencils for fine details. I used a white charcoal pencil for a few small highlights on her face. Pardon my enthusiasm, but I also like charcoal because it’s great fun. Creating gradients, softening edges, or blending tones is like finger painting in grade school. I have more than 8 hours in this drawing, and am still not satisfied. I stood during the entire time, at BWS and also in my studio. This kept my arm off the table, allowing for gestural strokes, and let me step back from the drawing frequently to evaluate proportion, tones, transitions, etc.
Motif. I chose to draw Toni Morrison, the Nobel laureate in literature and one of my favorite authors. The reference photo captured her face, but I gave her a sad expression. At a time when politicians attempt to deny America’s history of slavery and the systemic racism that prolongs that era and when police officers still summarily execute unarmed young black men with impunity, I tried to imagine the sad wisdom that Ms Morrison expressed in “Beloved” and other novels, then convey it by her expression and dramatic tonal contrast.
With a vine charcoal stick, Claude Cookman blocks in his drawing of author Toni Morrison.
Outside BWS
“On MY Journey” by Zoe Dean Cancer Support Community
Mon Jul 10th – Fri Aug 25th
Cancer Support Community Building, 1719 W 3rd St, Bloomington, IN 47403.
Zoe Dean is the featured artist for July/August at the Cancer Support Community. Her show is titled “On My Journey.” Gallery hours are Tuesday toThursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. but visitors must make an appointment to avoid conflicts with other activities at the center. Make appointments by contacting Stephanie@cancersupportscin.org or call 812-233-3286.
Call for Artists: The Venue
Grand opening and reception: September 3, 2023.
Dave at the Venue invites artists to submit work for The Venue’s Juried Art Show, a part of The Art & Soul of Bloomington. APPLY NOW to participate. The prospectus can be found on the Venue’s website: http://thevenuebloomington.com.
The Venue is pleased to answer all of your questions by your calling 812-322-1661, emailing venueartshow@gmail.com.
Reminder: Call for entries for the Friends of T.C. Steele Member Art Show.
T.C.Steele, “Selma in the Garden” (Internet photo)
Show dates: August 25-September 23, 2023 Registration deadline: August 10, 2023 Closing reception: September 23, 2-4 pm. Features a guided tour of the Brown County Art Gallery with an emphasis on the history of the Brown County. Art Colony and an online tour of the T.C. Steele Trail.
Prizes awarded in all categories: 1) Professional 2) Amateur/Emerging Artist 3) Youth (18 and younger 4) Best-in-Show: $1000
All art media accepted, including photography.
Youth are encouraged to enter. (Parents, grandparents and art teachers/tutors, please encourage youth artists to enter their artwork.). Frames for youth artwork will be loaned for the duration of the show. We will frame the work at time of delivery of artwork.
The show is on exhibit during the Brown County Art Colony weekend that features paint-outs at T.C. Steele State Historic Site and Nashville.
Not a member? Join the Friends at time of registration.
Hancock Country Arts along will be hosting a Regional Portrait Society of American Exhibition on August 11th and 12th. In addition to exhibition there will be demonstration by artists creating portraits. Guests also are invited to take part in the annual Greenfield Chocolate Walk festivities.
The Exhibit opens August 5th at 11 a.m. and closes August 26th at 2 p.m. Hancock Country Arts Gallery, 20 West North Street, Greenfield, IN.
Watercolor Society of Indiana
WSI invites members and friends to attend the 41st Annual WSI Juried Exhibit at Newfields/ Indianapolis Museum of Art. The show runs from August 4 to September 30, 2023. On August 6th at 2 p.m. there will be an opening reception and an awards ceremony in the DeBoest Lecture Hall & Bret Waller Gallery at the museum.
WSI is also hosting a 3-day workshop (October 4 to 6) with Michael Holter at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian Street. The topic of the workshop is “Watercolor Impressionism: Landscape/Cityscape.” For more information and costs go to WSI’s website.
Impressionistic landscape by Michael Holter
Friday, August 4 & Saturday, August 5 West Baden Springs Hotel • Garden & Veranda
Local artists will be painting in the West Baden Springs Hotel garden and on the hotel veranda. The paintings will be displayed and available for purchase Saturday, August 5th, in the West Baden Springs Hotel lobby.
Artists for Climate Awareness
Have you ever noticed trees with knitted sweaters around the Courthouse in Bloomington? Artists for Climate Awareness will be a “tree hugger” this year with its own sweater! Artists for Climate Awareness are raising money toward the “Wrapped in Love 2023″ tree sweater project for Middle Way House. Sara Steffey McQueen and her women’s group have already planned a knitted/crocheted design. The tree Sara has reserved is near the corner of Kirkwood and Walnut, across from Uptown Cafe. (A highly trafficked location! ). Deadline for donations is September 8.
Viridian Moon Gallery
The Viridian Moon Gallery will be hosting an Upland Plein Air Exhibit starting August 9th with an opening reception on August 12.. Here is the link to the event: https://www.viridianmoon.art/events
Membership News
Joanna Samorow-Merzer. “George and Viola Taliaferro,” a painting by Joanna Samorow-Merzer, was accepted into the KWS Aqueous USA National Juried Exhibition. The exhibition is scheduled between July 27th through September 16th at the Preston Arts Center, 2660 S. Green Street, Henderson, Kentucky 42420.
“George and Viola Taliaferro,” by Joanna Samorow-Merzer
Timothy Lewis. Nothing new to show – working on 4 commission paintings right now. I do have a couple of items of note:
The Watercolor Society of Indiana’s Annual Juried Exhibition will open on August 5th in the Waller Gallery at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. The show will have 45 of the best watercolors in Indiana on display through the end of September.
My watercolor, “Old Hamilton County Jail”, was included in the Nickel Plate Arts’ Noblesville Nostalgia show in Noblesville from July 6th through Julyt 29th.
“Old Hamilton County Jail” is a 16” x 12” watercolor using QoR paints on 300# Arches cold-pressed w/c paper
Patty Uffman. I asked Patty Uffman if she would mind my publishing her limerick (a ode to Carol Rhodes as an outgoing president) in the Newsletter as so members who were not at the July meeting might enjoy it. She agreed, so here it is: To Carol from All Of Us.
OUR HEARTFELT TRIBUTE
She has inspired us year after year. We respect her as both a leader and peer. Founding member of BWS… Who’s this person? Take a guess! Carol Rhodes is the one we honor here! With every office she has dutifully held From Prez on down, she’s always excelled. Talented, yet humble… Catching us if we stumble… With Carol on board, we’ve all been propelled. Carol has always stepped up to the plate, Arriving early for set-up – she’s never late. Need something done? Carol Rhodes is the one! She has the knack to make us look great! Wherever she’s present she offers a smile. She’s just a nice lady to talk with a while. She’s done more than most And knows how to host, And is quite accomplished as a true technophile! Carol’s a gift, we all must conclude. Her dedication we all have viewed. She has served us But now, no more fuss. Carol’s a model – just not in the nude!
Patty Uffman – On Behalf of Bloomington Watercolor Society – June, 2023.
Tricia Wente. Here are a few photos from a July event held here in Oregon. Every year there is a Lavender Festival and 150 artists are encouraged to paint up to 5 works during a period of 3 1/2 weeks at the lavender farms throughout the Willamette Valley. The paintings must be within certain sizes, and painted plein air. It is always a fun time since usually we have great weather. It culminates with a two day art exhibit for the public to enjoy at the local Newberg Arts Center. Of course, I sampled the wine at the Durant Winery which is my favorite site to paint.
Robin Edmundson has an exhibition at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage from August 3-Sept 29. You are invited to attend the opening reception on Friday, August 4 from 5-8pm. 121 E 6th St. #1, Bloomington, Indiana
Robin Edmundson, ‘Evening, Wabash River’, watercolor, 10×14 inches.
Kathy Truelove Barton.
Gazebo at Farmhouse Cafe and Gardens Painting by Kathy Truelove Barton 2022 Watercolor on paper with Acrylic white highlight on the gazebo. This painting was done with three layers of Daniel Smith watercolors.
Kathy’s painting was exhibited at the Will Vawter Show, hosted by Hancock County Arts, at Twenty North Gallery. The show came down in July. Three other Bloomington artists also exhibited; Betty Wagoner, Irina Shishova (owner of Viridian Moon Gallery, and Katya Alexeeva.
Laura Brown. These are a few examples of the paintings I’ve done for the July World Water Color Month hosted by @doodlewashed on Instagram . The first is called “Diversion” (the road sign); the second, “Flavor” (the boulion cubes). Each piece is approximately 5.5 by 8.5 inches.
July World of Watercolor paintings by Laura Brown
Joanne Shank. Here is the poster and description of the show I’m having at the Venue during August.
The blurb for the show reads: Joanne Shank is fascinated by the energy of movement and how that can be expressed in her artwork.
She enjoys sketching musicians while they are performing. The music inspires the lines as she tries to capture the essence and energy of the moment. The exhibit will have a number of large drawings of musicians playing a variety of instruments.
Joanne is also inspired by the energy in spontaneity that she captures in small finger paintings. She has made large acrylic paintings in an effort to duplicate this movement and energy. Being a dancer as well as painter, Joanne finds satisfaction in trying to express movement in a large 2D format.
Joanne works in several different styles. She will have her watercolors on display at the Bloomington Open Studios Artists Exhibit at the Backspace Gallery, with an opening reception the same evening, August 4th. See her work at both places!
Joanne adds a personal note: On July 15th, I participated in the event at the Eskinasi and drew musicians in two bands that played. The musicians loved the drawings, so I gave them away. Wore my BWS badge proudly! Appreciated the opportunity. Thanks
Calendar
August 1 – August 25. Zoe Dean’s Exhibition, Cancer Support Community Center.
August 3 – September 29. Robin Edmundson Exhibit, The Vault.
August 4 – August 5. West Baden Garden & Hotel Vernada Paintout.
August 4. Reception, “We Paint…Out of the Box,” Waldron, 5-8 p.m.
August 4 – 27. Joanne Shank’s show at the Venue. Opening Reception: August 5.
August 4 – September 28. WSI’s 41st Annual Juried Exhibition, Indianapolis Museum of Art.
August 5 – August 25. “Portraits.” Hancock County Art Gallery, Greenfield.
August 12. BWS Paintout: Owen Valley Winery, Spencer.
August 14. BWS August Meeting, 6-8 p.m., First Christian Church.
August 25 – September 23. T. C. Steele Member Art Show.
September 23 – October 28. BWS Membership Show, Viridian Moon Gallery.
September 3. Grand opening and reception, Art and Soul of Bloomington, The Venue.
October 4 – October 6. WSI’s 3-Day Workshop with Michael Holter, First Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis.
October 22. “Out of Darkness Walk,” American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
In June, and in conjunction with our yearly change of officers, BWS celebrated Carol Rhodes’ long-time commitment to the organization by giving her a Jane Matranga silk hand-painted and sewn tote bag full of well-wishes from individual members. Pictured above are Carol Rhodes, Patty Uffman, Jeanne Dutton, and Linda Branstettler. Photos compliments of Nancy Metz.
BWS Monthly Meeting: July 10th, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Business Meeting:
BWS’ July Meeting will be held at First Christian Church beginning at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program: “Five on the Floor”
Watch five BWS artists create portraits.
Penny Lulich • Ethan • Watercolor
We are fascinated by faces. Child psychologists tell us that after only a few hours newborn infants can distinguish their mothers’ faces. For millennia artists have portrayed the human face in every medium from charcoal to chalk, silverpoint, ink, graphite, pastel, watercolor, and oil, as well as three-dimensional representations in wood, clay, stone, and metals. Humans are compelled to create portraits.
Meri Reinhold • Massai Jeweler • Watercolor
All forms of artistic expression are equally valid, but portraiture is more exacting than other genres. In landscape, it is not essential to get every tree exactly in place. With still lifes and florals, there is latitude in size, contour, and value. In a portrait, however, if a feature is a few millimeters out of place, if an angle is askew, or a proportion slightly off, viewers will sense something amiss.
Deborah Rush • Claire • Watercolor
At July’s BWS meeting you will have the opportunity to see five BWS artists paint and draw portraits from reference photos of their choice. They are: Penny Lulich, Meri Reinhold, Deborah Rush, Jane Matranga, and Claude Cookman. Each will give a brief description of her/his process, then go to work. Members are encouraged to circulate, watch them in action, and ask questions. During the program, there will be a mini exhibition of portraits by the five participating artists. A handout on portraiture will also be available.
Jane Matranga • Donna Carlton • Watercolor
Claude Cookman • Wendell Willkie bust in IMUnion • Charcoal
If you need motivation to kick start your own portrait making, visit these URLs:
An audio slideshow of work by the Bloomington Portrait Group, which shares many members in common with BWS.
The finals of the British Portrait Artist of the Year Competition. Watch six exceptional portraitists, including a watercolorist. British actor, Sir Ian McKellen, is painted in different styles with different materials. Worth the time.
Inside BWS
BWS Membership Show
“WE PAINT…Things We Love!” September 20 – October 28, 2023
BWS Show Chair, Laura Brown, announced that this year’s theme is “We Paint…Things We Love!“
For Mary Cassatt it was “The Goodnight Hug.” For some, that may be a family heirloom. For others, the house where they grew up. For gardeners, these amazing spring flowers. For portrait painters, your beautiful grandkids! And the list goes on…. Whatever you love and whatever makes you happy, paint it!
This year’s show will be at the Viridian Moon Gallery (1600 W Bloomfield Rd, Suite B). Gallery hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Opening Reception will be on Saturday, September 23, from 3 to 5 p.m. The Closing Reception will be on October 28, from 3 to 5 p.m.
See the Prospectus on BWS’ website. Now is the time to begin work on your contribution. Let’s make this the best Membership Show yet!
We Paint…Historic Bloomington!
“Uncle Bruce & Aunt Vearl’s House” by Jane Matranga. The house at 607 E. 12th Street belonged to Jane Matranga’s great uncle and aunt, Bruce and Vearl Callahan, and their children, Conrad (Connie) and Carolyn. The house was built in 1920. “My family drove down to Bloomington from Franklin many times for family gatherings and especially to visit before and after IU football or basketball games. The house is five blocks from Memorial Stadium and Assembly Hall. “Bruce and Vearl welcomed my sisters and me when each of us attended IU in the 1950’s, 1960’s and 1970’s.”
Closing Reception: Gallery Walk Friday – July 7 – 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Monroe County History Center
Catch your last glimpse of the Historic Bloomington exhibit before it becomes, well, Historic! Then pop around the corner to the Waldron to enjoy “We Paint…Out of the Box!”
We Paint…Out of the Box!
BWS (with the support of the Sande Nitti Education Fund) offered a workshop on Friday, June 9 by Anne Farley Gains entitled “Exploration in 3-D Watercolor”. The 3-D art produced by Jerry Harste, Leslie Gamboa Asher, and Linda Mann, (shown above) are a part of the Out of the Box Waldron show.
June 22 – August 5
The Bloomington Watercolor Society includes talented watercolorists who are also accomplished in other mediums. This exhibit includes work by BWS members who go “out of the box” and create art in myriad mediums or produce works that use watercolor in unconventional ways.
See our works at The Waldron Arts Center Education Gallery!
Receptions are during First Friday Gallery Walk times: 5-8 pm on July 7 & August 4.
Note: Kate Galvin, Artistic director at the Waldron Arts Center, advises us that there is a small modification to public gallery hours for July and August, as this is the slow part of the year in Bloomington. Beginning on July 1, the galleries will be open to the public at the following times:
Wed and Thurs 12pm-5pm
Friday 12pm-8pm
Sat and Sun by appointment only
Galleries will also be open during all performances. For folks wishing to visit the galleries over the weekend, the Waldron crew will be very happy to accommodate them; people will just need to email info@seeconstellation.org in advance to make arrangements. This information will be updated on their websites and on Google beginning on Saturday and they will also post signage on the doors.
Gallery Walk will be next Friday July 7 as per usual, and we hope to have a great turnout for that! Please encourage everyone to come out!
Garden Club’s Garden Walk
This year’s Garden Walk on June 10 and 11 saw ten BWS and Plein Air painters displaying their talents. The gardens were in full bloom and, for the most part, the rain stayed away. Below are some pictures of the gardens and the paintings that were created.
July is officially World Watercolor Month!
Begun by Charlie O’Shields of Doodlewash in 2016, this month celebrates all things watercolor! The challenge is to paint a little something everyday – 31 days, 31 paintings. Find inspirational prompts and ideas at https://doodlewash.com/world-watercolor-month-july/
We got the Rocks! You got the Creativity! A Suicide Prevention Effort
Thursday – July 13 – 1:00 p.m.
BWS has been invited to join Project STAY and Kiwanis on a project to paint rocks as part of a National Suicide Prevention. Kiwanis is purchasing the supplies, including acrylic paints, Posca paint pens, and brushes, all for your creative use! Much thanks, too, to Preston Arts Center for making supplies affordable.
Later that week, after the paint dries and before they’re varnished, a tag will be added that gives credit to BWS and Kiwanis.
Thursday, July 13 we’ll meet at the home of Michelle Martin Colman, SafeTalk trainer. She’ll serve iced tea and coffee and treats while we do the painting.
Want to join in for a couple hours of fun and chatter? We can do a lot with 6-8 artists. Please let Jeanne know with an email to info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org. You’ll be glad you did!
Announcements
Betty Wagoner — The Friends of T.C. Steele announces a new project, a virtual or driving trail, with maps, that explore the life and work of T.C. Steele, one of Indiana’s greatest impressionist painters. For more information go directly to “The Trail”: https://trail.tcsteele.org
Nancy Metz – The Eskenazi Museum of Art has an exhibition of “Landscape and Abstraction in Watercolor, 1780-1980” from September 5 through December 10.
Sarah Ward, BWS Scholarship Committee Chair, announces that the BWS scholarship has been awarded to Danza Batson who is a recent graduate from the Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship and will be attending Indiana University to major in Fine Arts. The scholarship committee will try to get Danza to come to our meeting to show some of his work.
BWS Paintouts
Paint the Park — Saturday, July 15th, 9 am to 1 pm., Sycamore Shelter at Lower Cascades Park, Bloomington, IN 47404. Hosted by Carol Rhodes. Announcement will be sent to members. for more information, contact info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.
Paint a Vineyard Scenein August–Owen Valley Winery, 401 Timber Ridge Road, Spencer, IN 47460, USA. Owen Valley Winery sits on a high ridge in a beautiful country setting featuring the vineyards, a cafe, a front porch, out buildings – all the things that make for a fine day of painting. The winery opens at 12:00, but hosts April Bledsoe and Zoe Dean will be on hand to open the gates and greet our plein air painters at 11:00. The cafe offers lunch, wine tasting, and a place to cool off in the August heat. Carpooling for members is available – watch “Brushstrokes” and your email for details. Email Info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org with questions. For more information about the winery, go to https://www.owenvalleywinery.com/about/
Outside BWS
An Invitation: Art Alliance of Greater Bloomington
Henry Luck, President of AAGB, sent BWS members this invitation: Upland Plein Air and AAGB are co-sponsoring a FREE art demo, pitch in and music evening with Rick Wilson !!!
Thursday night, July 6. 6:00 -8:00 pm at the Flex Space at the Arts Alliance Center. Rick Wilson is known nationally and is highly respected as a landscape oil painter. He has a current exhibit at the Flex Space. We’ve asked him if he would be willing to share his approach to painting. So he will do a 90 minute demonstration, showing his approach to the art of painting . (We won’t be painting.) I think this will be a valuable session for painters of all mediums. He is also a guitar player. So after the demo, he will play a few tunes while we enjoy each others company and share in a pitch in (hors d’oeuvres/desserts). AAGB will provide the wine !
This should be a really fun opportunity to relax and socialize as a visual arts community in Bloomington.
Upland and AAGB are sharing the cost for the evening, so it will be free to all. Please help us spread the word !!!!!
Call for Artists: The Venue
Dave at the Venue invites artists to submit work for The Venue’s Juried Art Show, a part of The Art & Soul of Bloomington. APPLY NOW to participate. The prospectus can be found on the Venue’s website: http://thevenuebloomington.com.
The Venue is pleased to answer all of your questions by your calling 812-322-1661, emailing venueartshow@gmail.com.
Call for Entries: Friends of T.C. Steele Member Show
Artists with active membership in the Friends of T.C. Steele are invited to enter the show. Non-members are welcome to the show after the completion of the membership application.
The show is open during the Brown County Art Colony Weekend, September 8-10! That means more visitors to see the show.
Categories of Artists: 1) Professional Artist 2) Amateur/Emerging Artist (New this year) 3) Youth (18 and younger)
Win up to $1000! Parents, grandparents, art teachers and tutors, please encourage your young artists to enter the show. They could win a prize for their school art program and a gift certificate for themselves!
Dates: Registration deadline: August 10 Deliver artwork. August 19 – 20, 2023, 12-4pm Show Opening. August 25, 2023 Closing Reception. September, 23 2023. 2-4pm Pick-up of Artworks: September 23 after reception & September 12-4pm
The Hoosier Salon’s current show is “Timeless Treasures.” This will we followed with its annual “Good Ole Summertime Exhibition” from July 15 to September 3. The Hoosier Salon is open Thursday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m.
Watercolor Society of Indiana
If you have not yet seen the WSI Annual Membership Exhibit, you have got to see this show! There are 75 beautiful pieces of original art.
Open until July 22 at McFarland Hall Gallery at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis.
Membership News
Lynne Gilliatt wants to invite you to Jane Haley and her fiber art show at the Vault Gallery from now until the end of July.
Robin Edmundson. I have a show coming up in early in August. Here is the postcard announcement.
Tim Lewis. I have a new watercolor that I finished in June: “Rapid Transit” (15″ x 11″ transparent watercolor).
My watercolor, “Sunshine Came Softly” (15″ x 22″ transparent watercolor) was accepted into the Watercolor Society of Indiana Annual Juried Show which will hang in the Waller Gallery at the Indianapolis Museum of Art from August 4th through September 30th.
Two of my watercolors, “Entropy” (15” x 22” transparent watercolor) and “Caw Caw Perspective” were juried into the Hancock County Arts’ Annual Will Vawter Show and “Entropy” was awarded “Best Of Show”. This show will be at the 20 North Gallery in Greenfield through July 15th.
Leslie Asher wrote to share a picture she did while traveling in France this summer.
Susan Savastuk and local photographer Don Waters have teamed up for a Gallery-Walk event.
“Juxtaposition: A photographer and a Painter” will be on display at The Engraving and Stamp Center July through August.
Susan has been using some of Don’s landscape photos as references for her paintings. They joined up to display them together.
Sharon Parsons. I started this painting in a workshop by Renee Brouwer. Her new tips on composition gave me the start, but it was my composition and my painting .
Jacki Frey. Here are 3 paintings I completed while vacationing in Maine. We spent several days around Portland, Rockland, and Port Clyde where Edward Hopper and Andrew Wyeth painted.
Jacki also shared some of her Maine photos for us both to inspire and to enjoy!!
Andy Roberts. I painted at this year’s Garden Walk on Saturday June 10th at the Slaven Garden in Spicewood. While the garden had a very elaborate landscaping (huge stones surrounding the home with a waterfall and stream), I concentrated on some of the flowers planted amongst the rocks. I completed four 5×7 note cards which are attached. I plan to have prints made from these as well as four more that I have completed on various paint-outs this summer.
Barbara Coffman. I attended Ann Grimes’ 3-D workshop. To add an extra dimension of “3-D-ness” to my piece, I let the leaves dry and then used a small brush and clear water to paint a line down the central stem. Then I creased the leaf along that line before gluing it down. I wish I had finalized all my pieces and my layout before gluing my flowers. I would have cut out the petals separately and curled up the edges.
Laura Brown. A type of painting I love to do is what I see out my window when I am a passenger in a car. I always looked out the window when I was a kid and always thought there was so much beauty in simple highway scenes. Shapes, atmosphere and color all intermingle to make an interesting and fun painting. I’m calling this one “Power Lines.”
Calendar
Note: For up to date information always check BWS’ Online Calendar!!
-Participate in World Watercolor Month by producing a painting a day throughout the month of July. -Submit an abstract painting, Southside Art League -Stop by to view Lynn Gilliatt and Jane Haley’s Fiber Art Show at the Vault -Plan trips to see WSI’s Membership Show at Second Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis (ends July 22) and/or The Hoosier Salon’s “Timeless Treasures” Show (ends July 14) -Stop by the Education Gallery at the Waldron to see our “We Paint…Out of the Box” Exhibition (ends August 5th; Closing Reception, August 4) -Volunteer to paint rocks as part of suicide prevention (6-8 artists needed by July 13) -Submit a painting to the Venue Juried Art Show part of the Art & Soul of Bloomington
July 6 — Rick Wison, Art Alliance of Greater Bloomington, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
July 7 — Closing Reception of “We Paint…Historic Bloomington,” Monroe County History Museum
July 7 — Opening Reception, “We Paint…Out of the Box,” Waldron, 5 to 8 p.m.
July 7 — Opening Reception, Susan Savastuk & Don Walter’s Exhibition, Engraving & Stamp Ctr.
July 10 — BWS Meeting, First Christian Church, 6-8 p.m.
July 15 — Paint the Park, Sycamore Shelter, Lower Cascade, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
August 4 — Opening Reception, Robin Edmundson’s Exhibition at Monroe County Cancer Center
August 4 — Opening of WSI’s Annual Juried Show, Indianapolis Museum of Art (ends September 30)
August 10 — Registration Deadline, T.C. Steel Membership Show
September 5 — Eskenazi Museum of Art, Landscape & Abstraction Exhibit
September 23 — Opening Reception, “We Paint….Things We Love,” BWS Membership Show
Candice Bailey sent a note saying, “We just returned from Florida” along with this painting, entitled, “Five Palms”
BWS Business Meeting and Program — March 13
BWS’ March Meeting will be held in the Great Hall at First Christian Church beginning at 6 p.m. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be send by email. The meeting will not be on Zoom.
Program: Painting a Still Life
Bring your paints and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! After a short business meeting, we’ll share our time and talents as we paint a still life “set up” featuring flowers, shamrocks, and other things Irish. And, hopefully, enjoy Jo’s famous homemade shamrock sugar cookies.
A page from Jeanne Dutton’s Sketchbook
Some words of inspiration!!
“My still-life painting has more to do with light and shadow than with the objects themselves ” — William C. Wright
“I love painting still life because there’s a feeling of musical, flowing experience. The drawing doesn’t matter as much – what you’re really after is a feeling of clarity and beauty.” — Jacob Collins
“Memories are like still life painted by ten different student artists: some will be blue-based; others red; some will be as stark as Picasso and others as rich as Rembrandt; some will be foreshortened and others distant . Recollections are in the eye of the beholder; no two held up side by side will ever quite match.” — Jodi Picoult
Remember to bring painting supplies!!
Inside BWS
We Paint….Monet and More!
BWS’s show We Paint…Monet and More is currently at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage. It is scheduled to run through March 27. The show benefits Bloomington’s Teachers Warehouse.
The winter benefit show for Teachers Warehouse opened with its first reception during Gallery Walk on February 3 and was well attended with over 50 people enjoying the exhibit. Needless to say, there were many favorable comments from visitors and fellow artists and, again, it’s an exhibit of which BWS can be proud. Congratulations to Barbara Epperson on the sale of her painting.
Twenty-two artists entered paintings in varying adaptations of the impressionist style, a school of art fathered by Claude Monet. Those paintings were considered by three judges, taking into account technique, presentation, and relevance to the theme of the show. The winners are Jo Weddle, Silver Second, for her painting “Loving Lilies,” and Rose Brenner won Best of Show for her work, “Fish Pond.”
It takes a full team of folks to make an exhibit happen, and many thanks are due to many people…just too numerous to mention! But Gabe Colman gets a special round of applause for rounding up the judges, interacting with Teachers Warehouse, inspiring Rotary North to sponsor the YouTube video, and being emcee at the reception. His daughter, Stella Rose, age 4, was also a big help with the drawings for the door prizes which were won by: Sharon Parsons, a Monet tote bag from Newfields; Kathy Barton, a Monet coloring book; and Jo Weddle, a 2023 calendar featuring many of Monet’s famous paintings.
An Exhibit & Event to Benefit Teachers Warehouse Friday, March 3, Gallery Walk 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The exhibit may be viewed now through March 27 at The Vault at Gallery Mortgage, 121 E 6th Street, Bloomington. Gallery Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Please call ahead at (812) 334-9700.
Available for Purchase: Fine Art! Prints!
Unique hand painted and crafted original greeting cards are $10 each with 100% of the proceeds going to Teachers Warehouse. Proceeds from paintings are shared 50/50 with Teachers Warehouse and the artist. For further information contact Jeanne Ellen Dutton, Teachers@BloomingtonWatercolor.org
Andy Roberts, “Water Lillies”
A Request From BWS’ Historian
Linda Branstetter, BWS Historian, wrote to say “I would be happy to receive flyers, postings, notices of member shows, and other materials that document the work of our watercolor society. These items will be collected and placed in BWS’ History Binders. Mail materials of this sort to my address. I do not have a printer.”
Outside BWS
Viridian Moon Art Gallery
Rose Brenner, Susan Savastuk, and Henry Leck have teamed together to present an art show called “The Beauty of Nature” from March, 1 to March 25 with the opening reception on Saturday, March 4th, from 3 to 5 pm. https://www.viridianmoon.art/events
Additionally, the Viridian Moon Art Gallery is fully funding an effort to help pay the tuition of 16 students at the Art Academy in Kyiv, Ukraine by selling 11×14 prints of their work– for $35 each. Attached are some examples of their art pieces, which Irina Shishova has printed and prepared with mats.
Irina says:
“Dear Bloomington friends! We are so excited to let you know about an opportunity to help these amazingly talented art students from Kyiv, Ukraine complete their education under the most challenging circumstances. Please come check out their prints on sale at our community art gallery starting Saturday, February 18th, to show your support! 100% of the print sale’s proceeds will benefit the Art Academy’s students.
Viridian Moon’s website with hours and location are at http//viridianmoon.art
BWS artists support the Cancer Support Community
Thanks to a conversation between staff of the Cancer Support Community for South Central Indiana and BWS member Jeanne Dutton, any BWS artist has the opportunity to present a two-month solo exhibition at CSC offices at the corner of Landmark Avenue and West 3rd Street. Artists donate 20 percent of their proceeds to CSC.
The program started in September of last year. So far BWS artists Meri Reinhold, Laura Brown, and Rose Brenner have participated. Participating artists have so far generated sales that have enabled them to donate $397 to CSC.
CSC provides support groups for cancer patients, family, and caregivers; wellness programs such as yoga, chi kung, nutrition, and art therapy; education; and social opportunities, as well as access to extensive information resources. Exhibition space is open to any BWS member. Call Stephanie Shelton at CSC at 574-606-7687 to inquire about openings in the exhibition schedule.
The Cancer Support Center will feature the work of Sara Steffey McQueen in March and April. Two posters are attached. While they look alike, one is a bio and the other a description of the show.
Sara wrote to say, “The works in this show are being made into an Intuitive Inquiry Oracle Deck.” The third images is an example of what one of the cards in the Inquiry Oracle Deck looks like.
Sara concluded her note saying, “I hope to see some of my BWS, Upland and Portrait friends at the Reception.”
Opening reception March 10, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Calling BWS Artists: An Invitation
The Cancer Support Center is needing a BWS artist (or small cadre of BWS artists) to exhibit their work for September/October and November/December. If interested please contact Stephanie Shelton at stephanie@cancersupportscin.org. Stephanie extends her thanks for allowing CSC to host our artists and says that if anyone has any feedback about the CSC/BWS arrangements, comments are welcome.
IVY Tech to Host Avon Waters Workshop
Join artist Avon Waters in learning how to work with pastels in a new way, applying velvety rich color using soft pastels along with various liquid blending mediums. This special method, called “wet pastel” is applied in a repeated “construction and deconstruction” process, which allows the painting to guide YOU to its conclusion.
The Avon Waters workshop includes two days of instruction (March 24-25) in pastel techniques along with encouragement to help climate and conservation efforts. Enrollment fees will go to three nonprofit organizations. Featured will be a short discussion about what we can do to help the environment and a brief presentation by a representative of Sycamore Land Trust, who will talk about the organization and its efforts.
When: March 24, 9am to 4pm and March 25, 9am to 3pm
Where: Ivy Tech Bloomington (in-person)
Cost: $140
The workshop is appropriate for both beginners and improvers. In this workshop you can explore new pastel techniques or refine those you already use, while learning how you and your art can help conservation efforts. If you are new to pastels and want to explore them, don’t worry about the investment. Inexpensive soft pastels from various craft stores and popular online stores will work well.
Indiana Watercolor Society.
Between now and April 28 members may enter the Annual Membership Exhibit which is scheduled to be held at the Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis and the Annual Juried Exhibit which will be shown at Newfields in the Indianapolis Museum of Art from May 13th to July 21st.
Both exhibits are on display for more weeks than last year and both venues are working with WSI to help increase exposure and sales!
Follow these links to see deadlines, details, and apply online:
On Saturday, April 22nd, T. C. Steele State Historic Site will hold its fifth Arts of the Earth Day. Cate Whetsel, the Steele Historic Site Program Developer, asks that If anyone from BWS would like to come out to the site to paint or otherwise work outdoors on the 22nd, they would love to have them!
The site will waive regular day admission for everyone visiting outdoors that day. Building tours (10:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m., and 3:15 p.m.) will still cost site admission ($10/adult; $8/senior 60+, $5/youth ages 3-17). Artists who wish to work outdoors will work between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. on site the day of the program. Cate says, “We hope to have artists of all mediums! Arts of the Earth is a program to welcome spring and the return of warm weather, and to offer our visitors an inspiring day outdoors. Although we cannot guarantee it, it’s likely the daffodils will be in bloom!
Artist wishes to participate in Arts of the Earth Day should email Cate (museumcommunication@indianamuseum.org) with their name and times during which they will paint (ex. Name: Cate Whetzel, painting from 12-3 p.m.). Cate says she will create a guest list of participating artists for check-in at the Visitor Center. As a thank you for visiting and sharing their art making, artists will be have complimentary coffee, water, and soda available to them.
Additionally, the staff at the Steele Historic Site will be offering the Teddy Bears’ Picnic for kids and families from 1 to 2 p.m. on Arts of the Earth Day. The cost is $4/child with a limit of 20 children. Cookies and lemonade will be served in the garden, accompanied by a reading of the Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Pre-registration is required, as ticket sales for the picnic will end on April 19. Tickets can be purchased over the phone, in person, or online.
From 2012-2016, Bloom Magazine sponsored The Local Artist Showcase, an event featuring artists from Monroe, Brown, Green, Lawrence and Owen counties. This year The Local Artist Showcase will by held on April 23 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Monroe Convention Center. All artists and galleries are welcome. There is no jurying. Booth fees are $120. Space is limited. Deadline for artist registration is March 10th. Reserve your booth by February 28th to get a discount and receive preferred placement.
Artists for Climate Awareness Gallery Show
As of this writing, six members of BWS who are also members of Artists for Climate Awareness will be displaying their artwork in the Education Room at John Waldron Arts Center, 122 S. Walnut St., Bloomington, IN 47404 from March 3 – April 7, 2023. The show is in conjunction with a show upstairs named “Climate Shock”, in which Kriste Lindberg will also be showing her work.
The show in the Education Room is called “Elements: An Exhibition by Eight Artists on Climate Awareness.” It features Bess Lee, Joe Lee, Jo Weddle, Carol Rhodes, Meri Reinhold, and Sara Steffey McQueen. Two other artists (Craig Barton and Anita Names) are also in the show but are not members of BWS.
Opening Reception: Friday, March 3rd, 5-8 pm (First Friday)
Attached: Joe Lee, “Save the Animals, Save Yourselves.”
Painting Deserts in Watercolor: Workshop Report
Photo by Kathleen Truelove Barton (In-person Workshop Attendees)
On Saturday, February 25, several Bloomington Watercolor Society members and others attended a daylong workshop hosted by Artists for Climate Awareness, at Ivy Tech’s Bloomington campus and online. The workshop, “Painting Deserts in Watercolor,” featured an art project and an environmental education component. Nancy Davis Metz led the demonstration and art portion, and the educational component was led by Carol Rhodes. After a rocky technological start, the participants painted a desert sky and simple landscape using granulating paints and then painted an adobe building in the desert.
Process Photos compliments of Carol Rhodes
Emeriti House Art Show
Members and their partners of the Emeriti House retirees and Indiana University Retiree Association are invited to submit artwork to the 20th Annual Art Exhibit at the Emeriti House on IU’s campus. Artwork must be submitted by April 24. The opening reception will be on Friday, April 28, from 5 to 7 p.m..
Membership News
Timothy Lewis
Several items of note:
I received a Distinction Of Merit for my watercolor, “Crab Bounty”, at the Brown County Art Guild’s Annual Patron Show which ended February 18th.
My watercolor, “Obed River”, was accepted into the 2023 Annual Juried Art Exhibition to be held at the Hamilton County Artists’ Association Gallery, 195 S. 5th Street, Noblesville, IN from March 1 through March, 31. Only 45 out of 327 entries were accepted.
I have two watercolors I completed recently:
“Isle Of Palms 2022” is a 16” x 12” watercolor inspired by a photo taken on vacation at Isle of Palms, SC in 2022.
“Sunlight Came Softly” is a 15” x 22” watercolor inspired by a bouquet sitting on our dining room table in direct sunlight.
Phyllis Taylor
I have three works accepted into the juried art show “Figure & Face” at the Cannon Beach Art Gallery in Cannon Beach, OR. This show runs from February 17 – March 26, 2023. (https://www.cannonbeacharts.org/current-exhibit-1)
The group I belong to in Oregan just had the artists reception last Friday. It was fun to meet artists from all over the state. A nice mental boost during these gray winter days.
I have two watercolors and a Prismacolor sketch accepted in the show. See attached.
Tricia Heiser Wente
Tricia Heiser Wente sent her good wishes and invited everyone to her new show in Salem, OR.
Carolyn Rodgers Richards
The only relevant news is that I will have some of my paintings in our cooperative Hoosier Artist Gallery’s booth at the Local Artists Showcase on Sunday, April 23rd at the Convention Center. Below is an image of one of my painting for the Local Artists Showcase. It is called, “Summer Bouquet” and was done in acrylic and acrylic compatible cold wax.
Christine Peterson
I’m a fairly new member of BWS. I received the BWS email regarding the venue at Cancer Support Community, and today they signed the contract with me to have my exhibit there for the months of May and June! The show will be called, “The Spice of Life.” I will have cards and prints available of the 30 to 40 paintings I will be hanging. Attached are samples of my work and a statement about me and the show.
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“For the past fifteen years or so, Chris Peterson has enjoyed studying many techniques for painting inwatercolors, acrylics, encaustic, and most recently oils. Every year she has attended a workshop or two with different artists in many locations. These experiences have resulted in this exhibit of extremely diverse works including portraits, abstracts, still life, and a few landscapes. She continues to learn and paint, and will probably never settle on one style. “Spice of Life” offers variety in mood, subject and atmosphere.”
Kathleen Truelove Barton
MarySue Schwab
Bill Schwab
MarySue Schwab, Bill Schwab and myself, Kathy Truelove Barton will be participating in a show that will hang for the month of April in Viridian Moon Gallery here in Monroe County. This exhibition featuring work in various media. Paintings capture the “spirit of place” with Central and Southern Indianan being the focus. It is a unique collection of work representing places we have traveled and recorded in paint. Painting together does not mean seeing in the same way, and we think this show is a wonderful view into the eye of the artist. The show will be at the Gallery from March 29th through April 22nd.
Lynne Gilliat
I’m happy to report that I won first prize in the “Let It Snow” Show at the Viridian Moon Gallery. My painting was done in pastel on sandpaper and was entitled, “Prayer Flags in the Snow.”
Jerome Harste
I have been playing, trying new techniques and styles. The painting I submitted to our Historical Bloomington show is shown below (Painting 1) and was entitled “Building America.” I wanted to honor Bloomington’s limestone industry and its impact on architecture throughout the nation. Painting 2 is an attempt to redo that first painting in more whimsical style using patterns upon patterns. Painting 3 is my attempt to take a small section of Painting 2 to create an abstract which, of course, I also ended up embellishing.
Kitty Garlock
In January a friend of mine who lives in Australia contracted me to paint a picture for her mother-in-law’s 60th birthday present. She sent me a couple photos of their home to choose from and I fell in love with this one. I told her I had never done anything bigger than 7.5 x 9.5 and wondered if that was ok…they thought they would rather have a larger one. So this is my foray into the largest piece I have ever done…10.5 x 13.5! Finished mid-February and should be arriving in Australia any day now! My friend said…”Oh she is going to cry when she sees this!” Making someone cry may not sound right but it sure made me feel good!!
Now I am doing another one contracted by a friend and I have decided to make it the same size!!
Susan Savastuk
Three items:
*Team Show with Rose Brenner and Henry Leck at Viridian Moon Gallery. Opening reception Saturday March 4, 2023. 3-5PM
* Preparing for a July show at Gallery B in Bloomingfoods West. It will be a series of portraits in pointillism with marker.
*Showing in the John Waldron Art Center Spotlight Gallery March – April. Opening night reception for Gallery Walk will be March 3rd from 5-8 PM.
Rose Brenner
Rose Brenner took best of show award in the Patron category at the Brown County Art Guild in Nashville, Indiana on February 17th!
Jacki Frey
We are in San Miguel de Allende, here’s my night scene.
Nancy Metz
My painting of Molnar’s sculpture, “The Light of the World,” that stands over the south door of the Monroe County Courthouse has been juried in to the 2023 Kentucky Watercolor Society AquaVenture Show. The show hangs from March 17 to April 27 at the Lyric Theater, 300 E. Third St., Lexington, KY.
Charlotte Griffin
Charlotte sends greetings from Vero Beach, Florida.
Calendar
Now — Support Ukrainian art students’ by purchasing reprints at Viridian Moon Gallery.
March 1 to 25 — “Beauty of Nature” Show, Viridian Moon Gallery, Bloomington.
March 1 to 31 — Annual Juried Exhibition, Hamilton County Artists’ Association, Noblesville.
March 3 — Second Reception, “We Paint…Monet and More,” The Vault, Bloomington, 5 to 8 p.m.
March 3 — Opening Reception for Sara Savastuk, Spotlight Gallery, Waldron, 5 to 8 p.m.
March 4 — Reception, Susan Savastuk, Rose Brenner, & Henry Leck, Viridian, 3 to 5 p.m.
March 10 — Deadline for registering for a booth at the Local Arts Showcase.
March 10 — Opening Reception, Sara Steffey McQueen, Cancer Resource Center, 4 to 7 p.m.
March 13 — March BWS Meeting, First Christian Church, Bloomington, 6 p.m.
March 24 and 25 — Avon Walters Workshop, IVY Tech, Bloomington.
March 27 — Last day to see “We Paint…Monet and More” Exhibition, Vault, Bloomington.
Month of April — MarySue Schwab, Bill Schwab, & Kathleen Truelove Barton Exhibition, Viridian Moon Gallery, Bloomington.
April 22 — Art of Earth Day, T. C. Steele Historic Site.
April 22 — Teddy Bear’s Picnic, T. C. Steele Historic Site.
April 23 — Local Artist Showcase, Monroe Convention Center, Bloomington.
April 24 — Last day to submit artwork to the 20th Annual Art Show at the Emeriti House, Bloomington.
April 28 — Last day to enter WSI’s Membership and Annual Juried Exhibitions, Indianapolis.
April 28 — Reception, 20th Annual Emeriti House and IURA Art Exhibit, 5 to 7 p.m.
Months of May and June — “Spice of Life” Exhibition, Cancer Support Center, Bloomington.
On December 7th members of BWS took a trip to Newfields to see the LUME exhibit “Monet & Friends.” Kathy Barton’s photos document the adventure.
BWS’s Holiday Party
On December 12th BWS had its annual holiday party at Meadowood. Participants were invited to bring a painting inspired by Monet for the annual holiday exchange. Nancy Metz documented the event in pictures.
BWS’ Winter Benefit Show: We Paint Monet and More!!
Jeanne Dutton announced that again this winter, BWS will host an exhibit to benefit Teachers Warehouse. Last year, we were incredibly successful and raised over $1000. Because of TW’s purchasing arrangments and buying power, that $1000 translated into more the $10,000. In short, we did GREAT!
This year, our theme moves from the post-impressionist Van Gogh to the Impressionist artists. Founded by Claude Monet, others who followed this movement were Degas, Delacroix, Cassatt, Matisse, just to name a famous few.
Remember, this show is open to all 2D mediums, so get out those pastels, oils, acrylics, inks, any medium you choose. And to inspire you, here are some links to enjoy and a sample from one of your fellow artists. (Thank you, Deborah Rush!)
Opening of article from Herald-Times submitted by Nancy Metz
Sandi Nitti Education Fund
Sandi Nitti donated her collection of art books to BWS. BWS has used the money from sales of these books to set up rhe Sandi Nitti Scholarship Fund. The Fund is awarded to members who need assistance in attending watercolor events of interest to them which they could not otherwise afford.
Kathy Truelove Barton reports that to date BWS has generated $320.00 from sales of Sandi Nitti’s books and to remind the membership that the book sales continues. More than 50 books are still available. Techniques in pastel, watercolor and ink as well as some books with beautiful pictures of paintings for inspiration and browsing. Contact Kathy Truelove Barton to schedule an appointment to select a book or two, or three. Hardback books are $10.00 and soft cover books are$ 5.00.
Outside BWS
Upland Plein Air will host their Winter Membership Show entitled “Things We Love” at the Bloomington Arts Alliance from January 13th through February 12th.
The Watercolor Society of Indiana celebrates the artists of Indiana in its watercolor show in Fort Wayne from January 7th through February 25th.
The Viridian Moon Art Gallery in Bloomington will host an All Media Winter Art Show entitled, “Let It Snow!” from January 7th through February 25th.
Membership News
Jacki Frye. This is my snow scene for the Veridian Moon art show in January. Also, it is the scene I painted for a few Christmas notes that I mailed out. This farm actually exist. It’s on the winding road as you go back to Yellowood State Park from Highway 46. Title: moon rising.
Susan Savastuck. I will have some pieces in the Virdian Moon Gallery Show in January, Meanwhile I continue to display at the art Alliance Center in the Collage Mall. Will have some pieces in the Viridian Moon Gallery Snow Show in January. This painting is called “Winter Crisp,” painted on a 12″x 12″ piece of gesso board. Finished right before I came down with Covid.
Laura Brown. Here are some winter themed paintings I’ve been working on. They are all submitted for the “Let It Snow!!” exhibit at Viridian Moon in January.
Footprint in the Snow 11″x14″ framed,WatercolorTrees in the Snow, 11″x14″ framed, Homemade Walnut Ink, Micron Brush Pen, White Gell PenBlizzard on the Highway, 11″x14″ framed, Watercp;pr
r
Rose Brenner. Attached is a flyer for my show at the Cancer Support Community Center.Everyone Is invited to Rose’s opening reception on January 13th.
Nancy Metz send in pictures from BWS’s Trip to Newfields to see the Monet and
friends exhibit.
Top Row: Jan Britton & Joanne Weddle; Opportunity to look for some familiar faces; Cathy Barton, Greg Barton & Sarah Ward;; Bottom Row: Barbara Coffman; Charlotte Griffin; Jeanne Dutton
Mary Sue & Bill Schwab will have artwork in the Patron Show at theBrown County Art Guild. MarySue’s student entered the show with a beautiful pastel of a horse. As a horse lover, Ms. Deboy drew and painted her horse, “It’s the first time I used pastels” she said!
MarySue has been accepted in the light Space and Time online Botanical art show from entries around the world.
Paint Bloomington! Artist, Deborah Rush “Portrait of Annalise”
November 14 — Membership Meeting
The Bloomington Watercolor Society will hold its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, November 14, at the First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave. Enter through the Washington Street door; the door code will be sent by email. Members are welcome to share the number with guests, and a phone number will be posted on the door as backup. For those choosing to attend via Zoom, the meeting room and password stay the same month to month. However, for security reasons, Zoom meeting details are not published on the Web. Instructions will be sent by email and members are welcome to share them with guests.
After a brief business meeting, BWS member, Penny Lulich will present the program.
“Finding Joy and Confidence with Watercolors: What I’ve Been Learning Along the Way.”
Paintings: Haystack Rock, Sand Dunes, Depot Bay, Oregon Coast
“I’ll be painting a scene from a photo I captured of Big Sur on the coast of California, while sharing some of my watercolor story, and the watercolor adventures I’ve had over the past seven years. I’ll chat about how I found joy and confidence after a very rocky beginning, and even during a time of lonely painting under the “stay at home” Covid conditions. I’ll share my favorites; paints and palettes, inspirational watercolor artists, books, and videos, and tools that have helped me along the way.
I don’t know how much of the painting I’ll finish during the BWS program at the November meeting, but my hope is to inspire by sharing my story with you.
Below you will find my drawing of the Big Sur scene, and the photo I took. I’ll list the paints, brushes, and paper I use. Bring your own along with you or paint from home if you like.
Paper: 140 lb coldpress
Brushes: Escoda Prado #20 (for covering large areas quickly), Princeton Aqua Elite # 12, Princeton Aqua Elite # 8 (Mostly, I like round brushes)
Paint and palette: I mostly use Daniel Smith paints, but occasionally I use M. Graham or Windsor Newton. Bring the paints you use and enjoy.
Palette: All the usual suspects; yellow ochre, burnt Sienna, cobalt blue, new gamboge, lemon yellow, ultramarine blue, Indigo, sap green, green gold, cobalt violet (or any purple color that you like), Alizarin Crimson, cad orange, cobalt turquoise, shadow violet, shadow green, cascade green. Any other color combinations that you like to use, that include both warm and cool tones.
Inside BWS
October Was Some Month!!BWS Has Lots of People to Thank!
We ended September on a bang! On September 29 and 30, BWS supported the Peden Farm Children’s Farm Festival by assisting young children in creating thumbprint animals. The Children’s Festival was a large event, with hundreds of elementary and pre-school children in attendance. BWS volunteers worked full or half-day shifts in groups of three or four. Sarah Ward coordinated the effort. And then came October…..
Paint Bloomington-Babette Ballenger
On October 8, The Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington, Upland Plein Air, Bloomington Watercolor Society, Artists for Climate Awareness, and Bloomington Portrait Group teamed up to provide a free all-day event. Patty Uffman reported that although the day was chilly those who attended enjoyed the day and the excitement it fostered. The sessions for both adults and children were well attended. Babette Ballinger thanks BWS members for their support in donations of supplies and volunteering their time.
Paint Historic Bloomington Show– Jeanne Dutton
This BWS Membership Show can be seen through November 23 at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage. The first reception was on October 7. Somewhere between 50 to 60 people attended. There is an on-line version of the show available via Smugmug. A second reception will be held on November 4. Members are reminded that works from the show will be shown again next year at the Monroe County History Center.
Special visitors to the Opening Reception were the daughters of George and Viola Taliaferro, featured in the painting shown here. Linda Harvey on the left and Renee Taliaferro on the right posing with artist Joanna Samorow-Merzer.
BWS Saturday Paint Out-Betty Wagoner
BWS had its final Saturday paint out on October 15 along with a pot luck at Peden Farm. Patty Uffman and Betty Wagoner provided two flavors of chili (Red-beef and White-chicken) while participants bought side dishes. Here is Betty’s report:
“It was a beautiful day although a bit nippy. We enjoyed the fields, farm barns and a variety of animals and birds. The Pedens were gracious hosts. For our lunch, they set up tables and chairs in one of the barns and Mrs. Peden provided vases of cut flowers from her garden. We enjoyed red chilli from Patty Uffman and white chilly from Betty Wagoner. Those attending: Babette Ballinger, Linda Branstetter, Jackie Frey, Kitty Garlock, Pennly Lulich, Andy Roberts, Patty Uffman, Betty Wagoner.”
Top Row:Linda Bransletter, Kitty Garlock, Andy Roberts. Group Photo: Patty Uffman, Jacki Frye, Babette Ballinger, Linda BransletterArtists: Jane Matranga & Nancy Metz’s paintings at the Vault
Second Reception: “We Paint…Historic Bloomington!”
Mark your calendar! The 2nd reception for the BWS Annual Membership Show takes place during the Gallery Walk, Friday, November 4, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at The Vault at Gallery Mortgage (121 E. 6th Street). It’s a great show featuring 26 watercolor paintings by Bloomington Watercolor Society members. You don’t want to miss this beautiful – and educational – exhibit, created in collaboration with the Monroe County History Center.
While you’re there, please be sure to vote for your favorite piece of art. The People’s Choice award of $50 will be announced on November 28.
LUME field Trip: Monet and Friends
Wednesday, December 7th, 2022
9:30 a.m. – 3:00 (ish)
Newfields – the Indianapolis Museum of Art
Bloomington Watercolor Society members are invited to jump on the bus and take a road trip to see this fabulous display at Newfields! Discounted ticket price is only $25 per person. Reservations begin November 1. Members, watch your email for all the details. Questions? Send an email to info@BloomingtonWatercolor.org.
“The moment you step out of the elevator into Floor 4 of the IMA Galleries, you are transported to 19th century Paris, when the face of European art changed forever. Your journey comes to life with a rich, dynamic display of light, color, and sound. Impressionist paintings, dance around you on an enormous scale, revealing the vivid detail and bold brushstrokes of some of the most famous artists of all time including Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, Cézanne, and more—all set to a musical score that includes Europe’s most renowned composers.“
A Monet-Inspired Christmas Party at Meadowood!
Mark Your Calendar!!! Monday, December 12, 6 p.m.
This year our BWS Christmas Party will be at Meadowood. The event will feature a buffet dinner. While not mandatory, participants are invited to bring ‘a Monet-inspired painting’ (5″x7″ – Greeting Card Sized) for a “Bring One; Take One” Exchange. Your attendance is important, whether you engage in the “Bring One; Take One Exchange or not. Signing up to attend will begin at our November meeting and continue through December 1. Dinner choices and costs will be sent to you once these details have been finalized, but probably will be about the same as in other years.
A Historic Note
Linda Bransletter, BWS Historian, reports that in September of 2010, after the business meeting, Nancy Metz and her team took on a project of selling BWS greeting cards for $12 a packet to help raise funds for the BWS Scholarship Fund. Member were encouraged to buy and sell the card packets for distribution as Christmas, birthday, and hostess gifts.
BWS Name Badges
Andy Roberts is willing to order a BWS Name Badge for anyone who wants one. The badges are made of durable plastic with a magnetic backing (size 2.5″ x 2.5″). Attached is a mock-up. Andy sees wearing BWS name badges as a public relations effort; good advertising for for BWS when a member is volunteering or just out painting plein air. Andy estimates the cost of each badge to be between $8 and $9. If interested, contact Andy for ordering and for making payment.
Outside BWS
Viridian Moon Art Gallery has made a call for entries to its all media art show: “Let It Snow!” which will run from January 7 to February 25. Art work can be submitted online from now to December 28. Gallery hours are Wednesday to Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information go to the Viridian Moon website (www.viridianmoon.art). Questions: infor@viridianmoon.art.
The Indiana Watercolor Society is having aplein air paint out for it members and guests at Heritage Farms Alpacas & Events, 4175 North 1200 West, Flora, IN 46929 on Monday, November 21, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The Swope Art Museum ‘s 78th Annual Wabash Valley Show opens with a reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on November 4. On November 12 the Museum will hold a fund raiser entitled The Big Deal. One hundred and fifty works of art will be up for sale at $99 dollars each. Tickets for the event cost 25 dollars.
Member News
Joe Lee. If you haven’t seen it, do get a copy of the latest Bloom Magazine. Our own Joe Lee is the featured artist. Our sincere congratulations!!!
And for your information: Joe will be selling his clocks at the Bloomington City Holiday Market on Saturday, November 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Showers Common, 401 N. Morton Street).
Kathy Truelove Barton has a solo show of her watercolor paintings at Gallery B in BloomingFoods Near West from October through December. BloomingFoods is open from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (316 W. 6th Street). A reception will be held November 4, from 5 to 8 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Kathy wrote to add this update:
“My web site is now secure and the address is as follows. Https://kathysartllc.Square.Site. All the works in the show are on the site but the colors are much richer in real life.
My grandson is getting married the week of the November reception so my administrative assistant will be covering for me that night. She is a middle-aged woman who has been working with me for four years and is quite capable.
Thank you all for your interest in my works and progress as a painter.”
Laura Brown. “I have some news. I am going to have a show up at Cancer Support Community Center on the corner of Landmark and West Third Street. The opening is November 11th. I have attached the details in the flyer for the show and my gallery bio. For clarification on the RSVP, if anyone is wondering, all it means is to please email Stephanie so they are aware and on the lookout for gallery visitors as they have a small staff and want to make sure all gallery visitors have staff that can assist them with questions or purchasing.
Jerome Harste. In addition to attending Claude Cookman’s Portrait Class (which has been absolutely wonderful!) at the Art Alliance of Bloomington Center in the Mall, I attended a three day workshop with Liam Stewart, a Scottish artist, in Indianapolis. One of the most interesting things I learned was how to lay down a two-toned wash using plain water to save the white for focal areas. His technique involves catching the wash after the sheen has gone and lightly brushing the painting using a dry hake brush to make sure the gradation between hues is seamless. Works wonderfully.
Andy Roberts sent in two pictures. The first is entitled ‘Apollo Spring’ painted at the West Baden Paint-Out sponsored by Indiana Heritage Arts. The second is from the BWS Paint-Out at Peden Farm. This one is called, quite appropriately, “Peden Farm Barn”.
.MarySue & Bill Schwab. Bill was accepted in the Richmond Art Museum art show which runs November through December. We both also have paintings hanging at the Brown County Art Gallery, in the Brown County State Park’s show
Calendar
Now – Entries wanted for the “Let It Snow” Show at the Viridian Moon Gallery.
Now – Let Andy Roberts know if you want him to order you a BWS name tag.
Now – See Mary Sue and Bill Schwab’s art work at the Richmond and Brown County Art Museums.
Now through December — See Kathy Barton’s Show at BloomingFoods.
November 4 – Reception, BWS Membership Show, at the Vault.
November 11 through December – See Laura Brown’s Show at the Cancer Support Center.
November 14 – BWS November Meeting, 6 p.m. with Penny Lulich presenting.
November 21 – WSI Paint Out at Heritage Farms & Events.
December 7 – LUME Field Trip to IMA to see Monet & Friends.
Every artist was first an amateur. ― Ralph Waldo Emerson
It is not what you look at, it is what you see. ― Henry David Thoreau
“Raspberry Bush” by Patricia Uffman
September’s Program: “Show & Tell”
After a short business meeting, Kitty Garlock will moderate the September program. Members are asked to bring paintings that have have completed over the summer and share them with the membership.
In addition, members are invited to bring favorite “art-related” books for members to see. These could be novels about painters/painting, informational books about painting, etc. Be sure to put your name on the outside of the books you bring. There will be time for you to look through the materials others bring so you can copy down titles of ones you may wish to purchase on your own.
This will be an in-person/Zoom meeting to be held at First Christian Church at 6 p.m., Monday, September 12. Please enter through the Washington Street door. Zoom information will be send out to the membership just prior to the meeting.
Inside BWS
“Painter of the Dunes: A Life of Frank Dudley”
Our August program featured Rachel Berenson Perry talking about her new book, Painter of the Dunes: A Life of Frank Dudley. Dudley devoted most of his artistic career to painting what is now the Indiana Dunes National Park, a passion that led to his environmental activism to save the Dunes from industrial development. In this picture Rachel interacts with Barbara Coffman and Andy Roberts.
Historic Bloomington Paint Out
1928 Elm Heights House by Deborah Rush
On August 6th BWS sponsored at paint out at the Monroe County History Center. Jeanne Dutton reported that “in spite of the dire warnings of thunderstorms and rain, it turned out to be a lovely day to sit outside sketching, painting, and visiting. Eight artists attended and thank you to Betty Wagoner for co-hosting. Seeing the preliminary sketches and paintings, everything points to this show, “We Paint…Historic Bloomington!” being a very special one!
Thank you, also, to the Monroe County History Center for inviting us to headquarter there for the paint out. We enjoyed hearing Daniel Schlegel, director of MCHC, share some interesting stories about the Elephant Hitching Post, the new exhibit “Order Up! Restaurants of Monroe County”, and other curiosities on hand.”
Salt Lick Caldron. Photo taken by Andy Roberts.
West Baden Paint Out
On August 12 and 13 the Indiana Heritage Arts sponsored a paint-out at the West Baden Hotel. Indiana artists painted on the hotel grounds. On the last day, their artworks were displayed under the hotel’s dome. BWS painters at the paint out were: Katya Alexeeva, Kathy Barton, Kitty Garlock, Andy Roberts, Henry Lack and Betty Wagoner. Several participants (Andy Roberts, Katya Alexeeva, and Betty Wagoner) sold paintings to the French Lick Resort for their shop.
Betty Wagoner at West BadenKathleen Truelove Barton at West Baden Paint Out
Quick Reminder
Traditionally, Jo Weddle has graciously sent greeting cards to those BWS members who are experiencing ill health or the loss of a family member. If you know or hear of someone in our group who could use a little cheering up, please send a note to info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org.
A Historical Note
Linda Branstetter, BWS Historian, wrote to say, “As I was looking through the history binders I saw where BWS closed out their 2011 paint out schedule with a picnic lunch and painting session at Musgrave Orchard. At that time Musgrave was open and sold fresh cider, apples of all kinds, pumpkins, squash, popcorn, and caramel apples. Not sure they will be open this fall. Nonetheless, it ia a pretty drive on old SR 37. I imagine it was fun to paint the orchard decked out in all its fall colors.”
BWS Activity Calendar: Keeping Yourself in the Know
Now, information about all BWS events is easy to find in the BWS activities calendar. The calendar offers several views, a search field for quick access, and lots of attractive images. If there is a BWS sponsored event or activity that is not in the calendar, you can submit one for moderation. You can even subscribe to get notifications about new events. To see the calendar, go to https://bloomingtonwatercolor.org/home/activities/bws-calendar/ or simply find it in the menu on our website at bloomingtonwatercolor.org.
Key activities for the month of September follow.
September Paint Out: T.C. Steele Historic Site
Saturday, Sept. 10: Great Outdoor Paint Out at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site. The paint-out this year is concurrent with a celebration of the birthday of T. C. Steele. There will be a birthday party with cake and lectures. Artists will enjoy painting at a beautiful site while celebrating Steele’s birthday and, of course, cake. The paint-out fee will increase to $15 which will include the celebration if paid in August. In September the fee increases by $5. To register go to https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/INMUSEUM/bulletins/31f91db.
BWS Membership Show: Prospectus and Schedule
“We Paint … Historic Bloomington” is the theme of the 2022 BWS Member Show. It will hang at the Vault at Gallery Mortgage, 121 E. Sixth St., from Oct. 7 to Nov. 27. A second showing will take place at the Monroe County History Center in Summer 2023.
Of course, with the rich history of this county, the city limits is not — well, the limit! Quarries. One-room schoolhouses. Farms. So much to choose from.
We are fortunate to be collaborating with the Monroe County History Center, which has over 40,000 images in their files and has graciously waived fees for copies of photos requested by BWS members. To access the photos, go to https://monroehistory.org/photo-fees-and-guidelines/. Contact Hilary Fleck at collection@monroehistory.org for assistance.
Here are the important Show dates to mark in your calendar:
Sept. 15: Submit scanned or photographed artwork for the Online Gallery to Jeanne Dutton at info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org. Please send in jpg format.
Oct. 4: Deliver paintings to The Vault at Gallery Mortgage, 121 E. Sixth St., between 10 a.m. and noon.
Oct. 7: Opening Reception for Gallery Walk 5 to 8 p.m.
Nov. 4: Second Reception for Gallery Walk 5 to 8 p.m.
Nov. 28: Pick up paintings at The Vault ay Gallery Mortgage 10 a.m. to noon.
Peden Farm Children’s Festival
Peden Farm Children’s Festival is on again this year! On Thursday and Friday, September 29 and 30, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., BWS members will conduct art activities for local school children in conjunction with the Peden Farm Children’s Festival. We’re expecting 1,250 young children to pass by our table. Volunteers are needed on both days, morning and afternoon shifts. Contact Sarah Ward by phone or email.
BWS – October’s Paint Out
Saturday, October 15, there will be a Final BWS paint-out and Potluck at Peden Farm from 10a.m. to 1 p.m. Betty Wagoner says, “We will paint and share a meal in the barn/visitor center. There is water, a restroom and electrical outlets.” Look for more information later in September.
BWS – Cancer Support Center Gallery Show
On Friday, September 9, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the Cancer Support Community Building, 1719 W 3rd Street, there will be a reception for Meri Rienhold’s exhibition, Places to Go; Peopleto See. Meri’s show features paintings that capture her travels and the people she met along the way. Her show will be up through the months of September and October.
This gallery partnership is between BWS and the Cancer Support Community. Every two months a new artist will display a solo show of works. The public is invited to the opening reception. Works can be seen at the gallery during business hours: Tuesdays, Wednesdays Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m..
Paint Bloomington!!
WHAT:First Annual Bloomington Paint Out WHEN: Saturday, October 8, 2022. RAIN OR SHINE WHERE: Woodlawn Pavilion in Bryan Park (Next to the swimming pool).
HOSTED BY: Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington. Bloomington Watercolor Society, Upland Plein Air Painters are teaming up to bring this fun event to Bloomington!
NO REGISTRATION FEE: FreeNo advance registration required. Artists must check-in between 9.30 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the Pavilion the day of the event. All artists will have canvasses or multi-media paper stamped before beginning their work. Supplies will be available for classes at the Pavilion and some supplies are available for painting on the Bryant Park grounds.
HOW: Artists will be able to paint anywhere in Bloomington. The event is open to professional and emerging artists of all ages and skill levels to create original artwork of any subject in any medium. All stamped/tagged works must be completed that day by 3 pm to be eligible for judging.
Completed works need to be brought to the Woodlawn Pavilion by 3:00 p. m. marked with the artist’s name and email address or telephone number on the back. Please do not sign artwork until after judging. Wet Oil paintings should be in a frame for safe handling. Artists are encouraged to bring their own easel for display.
AWARDS: ALL stamped works completed that day will be eligible for judging. Awards will be for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place artists in following categories: Professional artists, Emerging Artists, Teens (12-17), and Youth )7-11)
The 98th Hoosier Salon Juried Exhibition is at the Indiana State Museum, 650 West Washington Street, and runs through October 23. Stephan Edwards and Jerome Harste have paintings in this show. Both won awards.
The Indiana Artist Club Member Show is exhibiting September 3 through September 29 at one of Indiana’s Historic Homes, 1201 Central Avenue, Indianapolis. The reception and opening is September 2 at 5:30 p.m. Awards will be made at 7:00 p.m. Jacki Frey is exhibiting a watercolor in the show.
The Watercolor Society of Indiana’s Annual Juried Exhibit is currently showing at Newfields Indinanapolis Musuem of Art through September 24. This Exhibition is free and open to the public.
The Brown County Art Gallery Foundation is gearing up for the annual Collector’s Showcase called “Snowfall”, featuring glorious snow scenes by early Brown County Artists. The exhibit opens October 1 and runs through November 13.
As part of the Showcase activities, artists are invited to participate in the second Brown County State Park Paint Out on October 28 and 29. Last years event was a first for the park and they are going to allow it again. All Indiana artists are invited to register. The Foundation will pay park admission for registered artists.
The Anderson Museum of Art’s Figures of Speech Exhibition opens with a reception on September 8 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. AMOA’s A Starry NightExhibition opens September 17. The AMOA is located at 32 West 10th Street in Anderson.
Carmel on Canvas is a Plein Air event held in Carmel from September 17 to 19. Meet at 9 a.m. at the Indiana Design Center in Carmel, 200 S Angeline Road. For more information search carmelartsanddesign.com on the Internet.
The Haan Museum of Indiana Art in Lafayette invites artists to paint on its grounds and in its sculpture garden on September 14 starting at 9 a.m. The Haan Museum is located at 920 E. State Street.
The SWOPE Art Museum, between now and September 19 is accepting work for its 78th Annual Wabash Valley Show. The 78th Annual Wabash Show will run November 4 to January 8.
Member News
Sara Steffy McQueen’s Intuitive Inspirations
Sara Steffy McQueen wrote to say that she would “love to invite you to view my exhibit, of 35 acrylics entitled, Intuitive Inspirations, showing through September at the Vault on 6th Street.” The Vault is open daily. In addition, the Vault will be open Friday evening, September 2, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Painting by Sara Steffy McQueen
Katya Alexeeva’s The Magic of Water
Katya Alexeeva wrote to invite BWS to her first personal art exhibition entitled The Magic of Water, at the Viridian Moon Art Galley, 1600 W. Bloomfield Road. The gallery is open 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Rose Brenner: Not Everyone Has a Signature Wine Label!!
“Here is an article about one of my paintings winning a wine bottle label contest for Mallow Run Winery. I’ll be signing the wine bottles at this famous theatre in Franklin, Indiana on September 10, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.” Folks, this is our chance to get a signed bottle of wine to impress our friends!!
Joanne Weddle Gets Interviewed by Morgenstern’s Mitch Teplitsky
Last month, artisan curator Jen Abrams, co-owner Sam Eads, and I (Mitch Teplitsky) dropped by the Bloomington Watercolor Society’s monthly meeting at First Christian Church to table some art books. That’s where I spotted Joanne Weddle, BWS’s Program Chair — and Jen’s former third-grade teacher!
(Mitch Teplitsky) This is quite a reunion! Have you been a teacher all your life? (Joanne) I had 38 years in our school district. When I retired in 2005, I was the Director of Reading Services.
How did you get involved with the Watercolor Society? I’m an art museum person. I’ve always gravitated to watercolors. When I retired, I decided to take up watercolors. There’s a warmth and softness about them I just love!
Jen tells me you are a regular customer at Morgenstern’s? I can’t stay out of there — I love it! I have grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I’m in that children’s section all the time!
What was the last book you bought there? I bought two copies of Corduroy in the children’s section. And another little book, with cloth animals in the pages. I love that store!
Do you remember the original Morgenstern’s? Yes, I remember when it was over in Eastland. I remember going there one time and seeing a picture book Scott Russell Sanders had just written, the story of the family who came down on a raft from the Ohio River. And when they came to where Louisville is now, they stopped and built their cabin.
Why was that particular book so memorable, do you think? I was thrilled when I saw that book because my mother was born and raised in Bethlehem, right on the Ohio river. It’s a town this big (holds her hands a couple of inches apart), ten miles south of Madison. That’s where I’ve gone my whole life.
I love that story. And we’re big fans of Scott Sanders. When I was at Morgenstern’s the other day, I saw that Scott has written another book!
Yes, Small Marvels, and it’s really good. We did an author talkwith him recently. I didn’t buy it, but I’m going to! Promise?
I’m going to hold you to that, it’s in the newsletter! (Laugh) Well, I love teaching, and I love Indiana history.
You were telling me earlier about First Book — Yes, I work with a national organization called First Book, that gets books into the homes of low-income children. We raise funds and award grants to schools and programs. We’ve been able to provide more than 80,000 books to the children in Monroe County.
That’s wonderful! How can people find out more? We have a Facebook page, Team First Book – Monroe County. (Note: To access you need to log on as this site is not public.)
May I ask what you’re reading right now? Well, I just got through ordering a book online.
I presume from Morgenstern’s? Oh, I didn’t this time — I ordered a book from Amazon.
Oh no….(feigning horror) (laugh) I know, I know … But I come to Morgenstern’s to buy books all the time! I buy a lot of books, a lot of children’s books.
We know you do — and so appreciate your support! Well, Is there anything else you’d like to add? I am SO glad Morgenstern’s is here. We needed it badly!
Cookman Curates AIDS Exhibition
Long-time BWS member Claude Cookman is lead curator of an exhibition entitled, Wild Horse Running: The Courageous Journey of Tom Fox. Comprising 60 photographs, it tells the story of Bloomington native and IU alumnus Tom Fox, a gay man who contracted AIDS in the late 1980s, when there was no adequate medical response. Fox, who worked in advertising at the Atlanta Journal & Constitution, invited photojournalist Michael A. Schwarz and medical writer Steve Sternberg to document his illness and death.
“I am a PWA (Person With AIDS), diagnosed on Oct. 2, 1987,” Fox wrote to Sternberg. “I am certainly no activist, only a person living with a serious illness, trying to make the most of life. I represent a growing number of people who unfortunately are not able to share their thoughts and experiences, but if I could help one person open his mind to this problem, I would feel like I made a difference.”
An inspiring instance of the human condition, the exhibition relates how Fox faced his illness and death with humor, courage, and a love for life. A photograph of him on his death bed, surrounded by his grief-stricken parents and brothers, became an iconic image of the AIDS epidemic. Notwithstanding its impact, the more interesting photographs show Fox interacting with family and friends, clowning for laughs, playing with his dogs — typical human behaviors everyone can identify with.
The exhibition, jointly sponsored by IU’s Kinsey Institute and the IU Cook Center for Public Arts and Humanities, hangs in the Grand Hall of Maxwell Hall on the IU Bloomington campus through September 23. A reception and program, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. on September 23, will feature Schwarz and Sternberg telling how their interaction with Fox affected their own lives. Cookman will moderate the program. He also wrote an essay for the exhibition catalog. Free copies will be available.
A Kaposi sarcoma lesion is evident on Tom Fox’s bicep as he undergoes a medical examination. Photograph by Michael A. Schwarz.
Susan Savastuk Wins Ribbons & Has a Show
Susan’s show at the Engraving and Stamp Center, 218 North Madison Street (in between Boom-a Rang Salon and Hopscotch Coffee, will be part of the September First Friday Gallery Walk. The opening reception of her show is Friday, September 2, 2022 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
In other news, Susan is happy to report that her paintings received 1st and 2nd Place Awards at the Lawrence County Art Association Mid-Summer Show.
Susan participated in the recent Bloomington Garden Walk at the home of Jan and Jack Bulla Baker.
Phyllis Taylor Continues to Shine
Phyllis Taylor (one of our off-site members) won first place with her portrait, entitled Sleepy, in the Watercolor Division of the Trails End Art Association (TEAA) 71st Annual Judged Show held in Gearhart, Oregon on August 2022. TEAA was thrilled with the array of talent displayed by the 54 artists accepted this year. The show was judged by Marilyn and Joe Clayton of Bronze Coast Gallery, Cannon Beach, OR.
Andy Roberts Shares His West Baden Paintings
Majestic Heights by Andy RobertsBillards & Bowling Pavilion by Andy Roberts
Now to Sept. 19 SWOPE Art Museum is accepting work for its 78th Annual Wabash Show, Terra Haute
Now to Sept. 23Wild Horse Running: The Courage of Tom Fox Exhibition, Maxwell Hall, IU Campus
Now to Sept. 24 WSI Annual Juried Show, Indiana Museum of Art at Newfields
Now to Oct. 23 98th Hoosier Salon Exhibition, Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis
Sept. 2 Susan Savastuk Exhibition at Engraving and Stamps, 218 North Madison Street, Bloomington
Sept. 2 Sara Steffy McQueen Exhibition at the Vault Gallery, Bloomington.
Sept. 2 Meri Reinhart Exhibition at Cancer Support Center, 1719 West 3rd, Bloomington
Sept. 3 Indiana Artist Club Exhibition, 1205 Central Avenue, Indianapolis
Sept 8 Paint Bloomington, Bryan Park, Bloomington
Sept. 8 AMOA’s Figure of Speech Exhibition, Anderson
Sept. 9 Reception for Meri Reinhart at Cancer Support Center, Bloomington
Sept. 10 Rose Brenner Opening Reception at Mellow Run Winery, Franklin
Sept. 10 Great Outdoor Paintout at the T.C. Steele Historic Site
Sept. 12 BWS October Meeting, Show & Tell, 6 p.m. at First Christian Church, Bloomington
Sept. 14 Haan Museum of Indiana Art Paint Out, Lafayette
Sept. 15 Submit scanned or photographed artwork for the BWS Membership Show Online Gallery to Jeanne Dutton at info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org. Please send in jpg format
Sept. 17 AMOA opening of A Starry Night Exhibit, Anderson
Sept. 17-19 Carmel on Canvas, Indiana Design Center, Carmel
Oct. 4 Deliver BWS Membership Show paintings to The Vault at Gallery Mortgage, 121 E. Sixth St., between 10 a.m. and noon
Oct. 7 BWS Membership Show Opening Reception during Gallery Walk, 5 to 8 p.m
Nov. 4 Second BWS Membership Show Reception during Gallery Walk, 5 to 8 p.m.
Nov. 28 Pick up BWS Membership Show paintings at The Vault at Gallery Mortgage, 10 a.m. to noon
Paintings from Irina Shishova”s solo show “Dancing Shapes” at Viridian Moon Art Gallery. There will be a reception on June 25th from 3 to 5 p.m. Here is the link to the event: https://www.viridianmoon.art/events`
Our June Get-Together June 13, 6 p.m.
Zoom and/or in-church Presentation. If you are vaccinated you can attend in person at the First Christian Church’s Great Hall, 205 E. Kirkwood Avenue. Free parking is available in the IU Poplars Garage, opposite the Runcible Spoon on Sixth Street. Pay parking is available on the street and in the Fourth Street Garage across from the former Waldron Building. To attend via Zoom, look for a link in an email from Joanna Samorow-Merzer or from Carol Rhodes.
AGENDA
First off: The installation of new officers by Joanna Samorow-Merzer. No Business Meeting is planned.
Following installation, Cassidy Young will introduce the 2022 BWS Scholarship Winner Jesse Kogge over Zoom. The presentation will be broadcast both in the church and to home viewers. This meeting’s presentation will be an opportunity for our members to virtually meet Jesse and to hear all about him, his art, his goals, and his future plans.
For in-person activities, bring your summer-inspired painting such as flowers, people at play, a summer event or vacation location, along with a small refreshment offering to share. Before and after the formal meeting we will be able to casually talk in the church about how our art and inspiration may have developed during the absence of face-to-face meetings.
Inside BWS
Election Results
by Joanna Samorow-Merzer BWS President, 2021-2022
On May 9th, the BWS election took place. With the majority of votes in favor, the quorum was met and the proposed slate of officers was accepted. The work of the new Executive Board will begin as of July 1st, 2022, and will last through June 30th, 2023. Here are the newly elected Executive Officers:
President: Carol Rhodes 1st VP: Katya Alexeeva 2nd VP: Andy Roberts Secretary: Charlotte Griffin Treasurer: Barbara Coffman
Congratulations to the new Executive Board!
Dues Are Due!!
FRIENDLY REMINDER: Annual dues should be paid by the end of June. As things stand, our current BWS year ends in June, and our new year runs from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. Please check our website for the cost of different levels of membership and information regarding payment options. You may also contact Carol Rhodes, Treasurer, or Patty Uffman, 2nd Vice President, for more information. (After July 1 contact Barbara Coffman, Treasurer, or Andy Roberts, 2nd Vice President.)
BWS Membership Show!
by Jeanne Dutton
Greetings, fellow artists! It’s going to be a fun summer as we prepare for our 2022 Membership Show in October and November.
The theme this time around is “We Paint…Historic Bloomington!” Events and activities are scheduled and there’s something for EVERYONE!
Most of you will remember the “We Paint…Cemeteries!” project and exhibit a few years back. That was a collaborative project with the Monroe County Historic Center. So is this one! We’re still working out the finer details, but save these dates and we’ll see you then
1. Garden Walk June 11-12Two of the homes on the walk are historic homes.
2. Docent Tour of the Monroe County Historic Center (MCHC) – FREE EVENT. Wednesday, June 15, 11:00 a.m. MCHC is providing a docent tour with Andrea Hadsell, MCHC Education Manager. Learn about our county’s history and famous Bloomingtonians, take photos of exhibits, and enjoy the morning! Maximum participation is 20 artists. Registration starts now! To save your space, email to me at info@bloomingtonwatercolor.org
3. Architectural Drawing Class — Saturday, July 23, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Education Room, MCHC. Steve Dawson, well known artist and BWS friend, will instruct the class and provide a book for you to take home. STAY TUNED for REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS and FEE INFORMATION. (It won’t be a big fee, I promise!) Maximum participation is 20 students. After the class, and weather permitting, Steve will invite students to join him outside on the lawn to practice their skills. (Thank you, Steve!)
4. Downtown Paint Out — Saturday, August 6, 9:00 – 1:00 p.m., MCHC Education Room. MCHC will be the headquarters for the paint out for cooling off, use of rest rooms, and painting indoors, if desired. So many wonderful old buildings, including MCHC, churches, the courthouse, Princess Theatre, etc. How about the soon-to-be-shortened Johnson Creamery smokestack?! Paint plein air or bring your photos and paint inside.
5. Opening Reception for We Paint…Historic Bloomington! — Friday Gallery Walk, October 7, 5:00 – 8:00, The Vault at Gallery Mortgage.
6. Second Reception — Friday Gallery Walk, November 4, 5:00 – 8:00. The Vault at Gallery Mortgage.
7. A SECOND EXHIBIT — Summer 2023. As a special opportunity for BWS, MCHC will host an exhibit of our paintings. More details to come on this event as we get closer.
Bloomington Garden Walk
by Charlotte Griffin
BWS has been invited to participate with the Bloomington Garden Club in the Bloomington Garden Walk by having artists painting in each of 6 locations. The dates and times are listed below:
Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sunday, June 12, 12 noon to 4 p.m.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
BWS considers this a Plein Air paint out. However, BWS creates a signup sheet and the artist who signs up commits to be at the garden, rain or shine, for the time slot. The artist should bring their gear (including an umbrella possibly) and set up in the garden so that they do not hinder the walking traffic (there can be over 800 people walking the gardens over the two days).
There are 5 gardens plus the Hilltop Garden and Nature Center community/university garden. There will be a flower arrangement display at Hilltop Garden for those who would like to paint Still Life.
If you would like to participate, contact me with the garden location (address) and time that you would like to paint; I will get back to you as to whether the slot is yours. (See next article, Using the Garden Walk to Get a Jump on Our Membership Show for garden descriptions.)
Here’s an Idea:Using the Garden Walk to Get a Jump on Our Membership Show
by Betty Wagoner
The BWS Fall Member Show is going to be “We Paint… Historic Bloomington” and here is an opportunity. Two of the houses on the Garden Walk qualify as “Historic” because they are in Bloomington proper and were built before 1940.
If you would like to sign up to be the artist in one of these gardens and perhaps capture part of the house in your picture of the garden, here is your chance.
Attached are descriptions of the various gardens that will be painted. Slots are available at #3 and #4 and at Hilltop, but contact Charlotte Griffin for current information.
503 S Eagleston, built 1928.
905 S Madison St., built 1925.
1. Doug McKinney & Peter Burkholder — 2501 Cedarwood Circle.
This garden features 10 varieties of redbuds, 22 varieties of perennial hibiscus, many irises and an uncountable number of daylilies. There is something always in bloom throughout the growing season.
2. Jack Baker & Barbara Bulla-Baker — 905 S. Madison St .
Right onto The Stands Dr. Left on Rogers Rd., which turns into Winslow, to Rogers St. Right on Rogers. Right on W Dodds St. Right on Madison. Garden is on the left.
This garden is a continuing work of sinuous informal beds, formal boxwood partitioned beds, and “secret garden” seating areas. Self-curated, the garden expresses the owners’ love of texture, color and scent.
3. Victoria and Bill Witte — 1300 E. Maxwell Ln.
Right on Dodds, cross S. Walnut St. Left on Henderson. Right on E Maxwell. Garden on corner of Maxwell and Highland.
The addition of an owner-designed deer fence allowed for the renovation of an older gardens and the opportunity for new gardens around the house and patio. The flowering shrubs provide a habitat for butterflies, bees and birds.
4. Maurice Garnier — 925 E. University.
North on Highland. Left on University. Garden is on the right.
Here is an outstanding example of a naturalistic, all season, meadow-style garden. The garden is a tapestry of native plants and spring bulbs, designed for continuous bloom and long-term, low-cost maintenance.
5. Richard and Conna Oran — 503 S. Eagleson (formerly Jordan) .
East on University. Left on Eagleson. Garden is at the corner of Eagleson and Hunter.
This garden was re-designed to accommodate the loss of large trees. All the area in this small city lot has been filled with an interesting array of shrubs and assorted perennials (many native), as well as vegetables and herbs.
6. Hilltop Garden and Nature Center — 2367 E. 10th St.
North on Eagleson. Right on 10th to Hilltop Garden on the left, just before the 45/46 Bypass.
The flower show theme, Flags and Flowers, presents delightful flower arrangements coordinated with national flags. Also at Hilltop, tour IU’s unique Shakespeare Garden containing only plants mentioned in his writings, plus the refreshing Shade Gardens.
A Follow-Up Report: Wiley House Museum Paint Out
by Betty Wagoner
Sandwiched between storms and rain, six BWS members attended a paint-out at the Wylie House Museum in Bloomington. We painted in the Museum, on the Museum grounds, and in the Education Center (the barn). We were greeted warmly by the Museum staff and student trainees. All enjoyed coffee, donuts, and cookies while painting at this pleasant and beautiful site. Painters include: Barbara Coffman, Kathy Barton, Andy Roberts, Marcie LeMasters, Jennifer Wyrick and Betty Wagoner. Marcie and Jennifer are new BWS members.
A Little History by Linda Bransletter, BWS Historian
I found BWS had a paint out at Bunham Woods Nursery in August 2006. The Herald Times wrote an article titled ” Making Art Outside”. This showed a photo of BWS artist Carol Rhodes painting at the nursery. Also Paul Sharp had completed a sketch to help him remember the shapes and shadows as the day progressed. Elizabeth Carey was another painter at the BWS paint out. Her painting focused on the butterflies and insects among the flowers.
Beyond BWS
The Watercolor Society of Indiana’s Juried Exhibit is scheduled to run from August 5 to September 24 at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Final selection of work is pending but several BWS members have entered paintings for inclusion in this show.
The Watercolor Society of Indiana is also hosting a four-day workshop with Ken Call on “Portraits” to be held from July 5 – 8 at the Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 Meridian St., Indianapolis.
The Hoosier Art Salon’s 98th Annual Exhibition and Awards will by held at the Indiana State Museum from August 26 to October 26. Apply online from May 2 to June 10 at juriedartservices.com.
The Brown County Art Guild is putting on a fundraiser called “Art in the Garden” on July 25, 5 – 8 p.m.,in Nashville. Tickets for their annual raffle are also on sale.
Hancock County Arts 2022 Will Vawter Juried Art Show will be held from June 4 to July 16.
The Wabash Valley Artists Society juried show will be at The Arts Federation in Lafayette, September 2 – 30. See the organizations website for a prospectus and further information. The Wabash Valley Artists Society also has several upcoming paint-outs of interest:
June 4, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wyatt LeGrand Plein Art Workshop, 102 S 10th Street, Lafayette.
June 18, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., The Farm at Prophetstown, 5545 Swisher Rd., West Lafayette.
July 2, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Delphi Canal Days, 1030 N. Washington St., Delphi, Ind.
July 14, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. , Jerie Art Home for Bastille Day, 3635 Goodall Court, West Lafayette.
July 30, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Yea Creek Orchard — Sunflower Festival, 5618 S. 200 E, Lafayette.
Guido Frick Workshop
by Guido Frick
Upland Plein Air and the Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington are offering a Guido Frick plein air workshop, “Adding Power and Emotion to Your Painting,” June 3 – 5. The class size is 6 to 10, and the experience is geared for intermediate and advanced painters. The cost is $550. For additional information and to reserve your place, contact Babette Ballengers. Visit https://www.guidofrickfineart.com to learn more about the instructor.
Viridian Moon Gallery plans to launch a fundraising campaign in support of this Ukrainian non-profit organization: https://shelter-plus.com/support/eng. Artists have designated a percentage of their sales during this time period to go to the organization.
Indiana Heritage Arts will sponsor the West Baden Paint Out on August 12 and 13 at West Baden Springs Hotel. Artists can paint the beautiful West Baden Springs Hotel and gardens and then sell their art in the hotel lobby on Saturday afternoon. There is no registration fee, but interested artists should call the Brown County Art Gallery at 812-988-4609.
Membership News
Andy Roberts. Here are two watercolor paintings I started last fall during Upland Paint Outs that I recently finished in my studio. The first one is a pen and ink with watercolor of a gate and stone fence at the Marshall Township Park’s “Avoca Fish Hatchery” in Lawrence County. The second one is the Tulip Trestle viewed from the observation deck.
Jerome Harste. I’ve been teaching a Zoom class on how teachers might use art to support students in becoming critically literate. We have been studying several artists including Jacob Lawrence and William R. Johnson. Adopting their techniques and following these artists’ lead, I have decided to do a series of painting on Education. Here is my first attempt called, “Teaching Critical Race Theory.” The elaborated title, which I am somehow going to affix to the painting, is: “In 2022 Texas banned the teaching of Critical Race Theory, an educational movement inviting all teachers and all students to explore the systematic causes of racism in our society for purposes of doing something to stop it. Many are questioning the constitutionality of such a law.“
Teaching Critical Race Theory by Jerome Harste
MarySue Schwab. We are painting in Arizona. This is a watercolor from Walnut Canyon, Arizona.
Bill worked on this drawing of Walnut Canyon for a painting. The rim is 7,000 ft. And there are 240 steps to decend into the canyon where there are cliff dwellings. Quite a hike up!
Susan Savastuk. I currently have art work at The Dimension Mill on Madison and Rogers. I also won a second place award for my 2022 Echo Hero Art submission, entitled ”Compostables”. I did a painting demonstration of my Covid Mask Pointillism process for the Bloomington 50+ Expo held at Switch Yard Park.
Bess Lee. I have been influenced by a group of artists who call themselves, “Artist for Climate Awareness.” They go be to thinking about all the animals that I really love. Here are two of my most recent paintings. My plan is to continue to paint imagines that pertain to this theme.
“The Old Man of the Sea” and “Exodus Across the Gulf” by Bess Lee
Calendar
June 3-5 — Upland Plein Air Workshop with Guido Frick.
June 4 — Wyatt LeGrand Plein Art Workshop, Lafayette.
June 4-July 16 — Hancock Valley’s Will Vader Art Show.
June 10 — Last day to enter a painting in the Hoosier Salon’s Juried 2022 Exhibit.
June 11-12 — The Bloomington Garden Walk
June 13 — Monthly BWS Meeting, 6 p.m.
June 15 — Docent Tour, Monroe County Historical Center, 11 a.m.
June 18, — Wabash Valley Paint Out, The Farm at Prophetstown, West Lafayette.
July 2 — Wabash Valley Paint Out, Canal Days, Delphi.
July 5-8 — WSI’s 4-day Workshop with Ken Call, Indianapolis.
July 14 — Wabash Valley Paint Out, Bastille Day, West Lafayette.
July 23 — Architectural Drawing Class, Monroe County Historical Center, 10:30 a.m.
July 25 — Brown County Art Guild Fundraiser, Nashville.
July 30 — Wabash Valley Paint Out, Sunflower Festival, Lafayette.
August 5-September 24 — WSI’s Juried School, Indianapolis Museum of Art.
August 6 — BWS’s Downtown Paint Out, meet at the Monroe County Historical Center.
August 12-13 — Indiana Heritage Arts Paint Out at West Baden.
August 26-October 6 — Hoosier Salon Juried Show, Indiana History Museum, Indianapolis.
The April 11th meeting will be in person and online. If you are vaccinated and wearing a mask, you can attend in-person at the First Christian Church’s Great Hall, 205 E. Kirkwood. If attending the meeting in person, dress in layers as windows will be open to facilitate ventilation.
Free parking is available in thr IU Poplars Garage, across from the Runcible Spoon. Pay parking is available on the street and in the Fourth Street Garage, across from the former Waldron building.
To attend the meeting via Zoom, look for the link in an email from Joanna Samorow-Merzer or from Carol Rhodes
Program: ONE STROKE FLOWERS IN WATERCOLOR by Beverly S. Mathis
DEMONSTRATION:
For a change of pace, let’s do a painting in one sitting, without a detailed plan, and have some fun. We will capture the simplicity and beauty of flowers by using your watercolor brushes in a new way. And learn how to paint a loose watery foreground. What you learn can be used for a framed piece of art, or smaller pieces such as greeting cards.
SUPPLIES:
One piece of 140# HOT PRESS watercolor paper, such as a quarter sheet of Arches or your favorite brand, or a page from a watercolor tablet, whatever you have.
Masonite board (or other waterproof board) Masking Tape Assorted WC brushes in lots of different sizes and shapes (round, pointed, blunt, filbert, flat, etc.) Any kind of synthetic, blend or sable will work. Transparent watercolors, and opaque gouache Palette with plenty of mixing areas Water container Paper towels No.2 or HB pencil, and kneaded eraser Masking fluid, old brushes for applying, and pickup for removing Old Windex pump bottle, or adjustable nozzle sprayer, that makes DROPLETS of ater and not a mist
Inside BWS
A Request From Our President
In early March, Gabe Colman gave me a tour of the Teachers Warehouse located in a former Monroe County school. The Teachers Warehouse provides free school supplies for local teachers and their students. There are chairs, bookcases, shelves, backpacks, books, papers, notebooks, pens, pencils, knitting supplies, and so much more. Please check your homes and see what you have there that you could donate to the Teachers Warehouse. Every item matters. You can go to the website of theTeachers Warehouse for examples of what you can donate.
Joanna Samorow-Merzer
Ad Hoc Nominating Committee
The 2022-23 Nominating Committee is made up of Sarah Ward as the Chair and Zain Mackey and Meri Reinhold as committee members. The committee is eager to hear from anyone who would like to serve in the vacant slots for officers and chairs. Still needed — Someone to run for President and these committees chairs: Activities, Paint-Out, and Publicity. Contact Sarah Ward or any member of the Nominating Committee (see the Membership Roster for email addresses and telephone numbers).
Paint-Outs
Chair: Betty Wagoner reports the following:
The May 21 paint out will be at the Wiley House.
The June 11 and 12 paint out will be part of the Bloomington Garden Club Garden Walk. There will be a signup distributed to let members signup for a 2 or 4-hour slot to be an “Artist in the Garden” at one of 5-6 gardens that will be on display.
The July 16 paint out will be at Hilltop Garden and Nature Center.
The October 8 paint-out will be a Peden Farm.
Historical Note
Linda Branstetter, BWS Historican, sent in this historical note: In April of 2012, BWS had an art supply drive for Henryville Schools that were affected by the March 2nd tornado.
Outside BWS
Upland Plein Air 2022 Member Exhibition
Painting by Kitty Garlock
The Upland Plein Air 2022 Member Exhibition will hang at Viridian Moon Gallery April 1 – May 15. The opening reception will be 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 2.
Votes will be taken for peoples choice awards so come and submit a vote for your favorite painting
T.C. Steele Historic Site
Cate Whetzel, Program Developers for the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites wrote to say: “Hello everyone! Please contact me if you would like to paint at the site for Arts of the Earth Day. Just a correction—the event is next MONTH, Sat. April 23, between 12-4pm.” (Cate can be contacted by email via the Indiana State Museum site on the Internet.)
Watercolor Society of Indiana
The Annual Watercolor Society of Indiana Membership Exhibit will be held at the Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis from May 14 to July 8. Deadline to register April 29th. $16 Entry. The Membership Exhibit Opening Reception and Luncheon will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022. 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm. $20 per person.
The 40th Annual WSI Juried Exhibit will be held at Newfields/Indianapolis Museum of Art, 4000 N. Michigan Rd., from August 5, 2022 – September 24, 2022. Deadline to enter is May 6th. Artist Ken Call, AWS, NWS, TWSA MS is this year’s juror. $35 for one entry. $45 for two entries.
Workshops in New Harmony are not just about learning, they are about your experience with other artists! The April workshops are just three weeks away. Join the other artists who have already signed up.
Bloomington Portrait Group Moves Outside to Switchyard Park for Summer Schedule
The Bloomington Portrait Group will meet at the Switchyard Park Shelter from April 14 through October 27. Sessions are from 1 to 3 p.m., every other Thursday. The $30 model fee is divided among participating artists. The summer line-up includes some teenagers, the directors of Monroe County’s Habitat for Humanity and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), and Sylvia McNair, Metropolitan Opera star, two-time Grammy winner, and IU Jacobs School of Music emerita professor. If you would like to be included in the announcement list, email BWS member Claude Cookman, who also directs the BPG.
Joanna Samorow-Merzer • James Stewart • Pastel From last September’s BPG exhibition at Viridian Moon Gallery.
Member News
NEW MEMBER: Our newest member, Marcie LeMasters, is ready to embark on a new phase of her creative journey. Marcie has been in Bloomington since 1970 while she was earning a fine arts major in photography from I.U. and much more recently enrolled in an online watercolor class during the pandemic. She says it piqued her interest and was a fabulous investment of $27.00! She has been a personal trainer and yoga instructor, is now semi-retired but still works as bookkeeper for A-1 Window Cleaning Services which her late husband started. Please join me in welcoming Marcie to Bloomington Watercolor Society!
“The Promise of Spring” by Tim Lewis
Tim Lewis. I recently donated one of my original watercolors to WSI for their Colorvision 2022 Silent Auction. The proceeds for this auction will go towards watercolor classes for kids aged 5-12 at The Christamore House as well as demonstrations and classes in communiuties throughout Indiana. Donated paintings will hang at Sak’s Third Floor Gallery at Sak’s Fifth Avenue here in Indianapolis during the auction. More information about this activity is available at https://www.watercolorsocietyofindiana.org/Silent-Auction-2022.
“Boats in the Harbor” and “Cat Napper” by Jacki Frey
Jacki Frey. Juniper Art Gallery and Gifts in Spencer is hanging their new spring show. I have 4 paintings in the gallery space for spring. Please check out their website at https://juniperartgallery.com or stop by, 46 E. Market Street, downtown Spencer.
Sandy Hall & Betty Wagoner
Sandy Hall received best of Show in the Friends of TC Steele members exhibit, held in March at the Brown County Gallery, Nashville IN. Kudos to Betty Wagoner who organized this wonderful show.
Some of the feathers to be painted in Sandy’s watercolor class this April.
Sandy teaches a watercolor class once a month at the Hancock Co Arts Gallery, 20 N State in Greenfield, IN. April’s topic is painting a feather.
“Granddaughter” by Sandy Hall (Acrylics on Yupo)
This one is a study of my granddaughter using fluid acrylics and marker on yupo. I love to paint images that tell a story.
MarySue Schwab. I recently won second place in the TC Steele Members show. My Painting is called, “Yellow Glen” and is oil on linen board. I have also been accepted in the129th Women’s Art Club Show in Cincinnati. The painting is a watercolor of pears on a tree called, “Study in Green.”
Susan Savastuk. My Boomingfoods Gallery B show closed on March 28th. I sold 30% of pieces and received 3 commissions during the 3 month show. $100 raised for Middle Way House.
Punkin House Kate from Needmore Coffee Roasters
I had 2 pieces in the Friends of T.C. Steele show at Brown County Art Gallery in Nashville. One piece sold. Show closed March 27th.
I entered the City of Bloomington Environmental Commissions’ Eco-Heroes Art Contest. This years theme is “Fighting Fragmentation”. The awards ceremony will be April 23rd @ 10:00 AM at Cascades Park. Email Ben Sharaf at environment@bloomington.in.gov for more information.
I also submitted one piece to the Upland Plein Air Show at Viridian Moon Gallery, runs from April 1-May 15th.
Finally, I also have a number of paintings hanging at the Art Alliance Center at College Mall.
Tricia Went. A triple portrait commission in acrylics has been consuming my studio time for the past 4- 5 months. Also, I have been showing watercolors and acrylics in several local juried shows, one recently in California, and two in the Elsinore Gallery in Salem, OR. This summer, I plan to be painting plein aire in the Willamette Valley Lavender Festival, which culminates with a two day July show in the Chehalem Art Center in Newberg.
I finally feel back in the groove after the move from Indiana, but I will always miss my BWS art family.
Weekly, now that covid is behind us, I am painting in McMinnville with several artists working in watercolor, critiquing and mostly socializing!
Kathy Barton wrote to say that her husband, Craig D. Barton, has received “Artist in Residence” status at Glacier National Park and at Crater National Park. She also has invited BWS members to come and see Craig’s photographic series, “Wide Awake and Dreaming” Show at the Monroe Convention Center, Ralph Rogers Room, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
18″x25″ Photographs in Craig D. Barton’s Show
Nina Ost. These two pictures are done by transferring photo to paper and then masking the area of lightest value and applying rose, yellow, gold and blue paint with a mouth atomizer. After the first coat is dry, you mask next lightest value and blow paint . Repeat for a few more applications until only the darkest area is not masked. When dry, peal and reveal. I’m still working on concentrating paint to control color. It isn’t cheating to do brush touch ups. I can forward specific instructions if anyone likes. The surprise at the end is fun!
InspirationalTips & Techniques
Brenda Ueland inher book, “If You Want to Write: A Book About Independence and Spirit“:
“When Van Gough was a young man in his early twenties, he was in London studying to be a clergyman. He had no thought of being an artist at all. He sat in his cheap little room writing a letter to his younger brother in Holland, whom he loved very much. He looked out his window at a watery twilight, a thin lamppost, a star, and he said in his letter something like this: “It is so beautiful I must show you how it looks.” And then on his his cheap ruled note paper, he made the most beautiful, tender, little drawing of it. When I read this letter of Van Gogh’s it comforted me very much and seemed to throw a clear light on the whole road to art. Before, I thought that to produce a work of painting or literature, you scowled and thought long and ponderously and weighted everything solemnly and learned everything that all artists had ever done aforetime, and what their influences and schools were, and you were careful about “design” and “balance” and getting “interesting planes” into your painting, and avoided, with the most astringent severity, showing the faintest “academical” tendency, and were strictly modern. And so on and so on. But the moment I read Van Gogh’s letter I knew what art was, and the creative impulse. It is a feeling of love and enthusiasm for something, and in a direct, simple, passionate and true way, and you try to show this beauty in things to others, by drawing it. And Van Gogh’s little drawing on the cheap note paper was a work of art because he loved the sky and the frail lamppost against it so seriously that he made the drawing with the most exquisite conscientiousness and care.”
Calendar
April 1 – May 15 — Upland Plain Air Show, Viridian Moon Gallery
April 14 — Bloomington Portrait Group, Switchyard Park Shelter, 1-3 p.m.
April 23 — Art of Earth Day, T.C. Steele Historic Site, 12-4 p.m.
April 25 – 29 — Hoosier Art Along Spring Workshops
April 29 — Last day to register for Annual WSI Membership Exhibition
May 6 — Last day to register for Annual WSI Juried Exhibition
